Passions of an Odd Chick

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Conquering the Mountain

It all started with this darling picture of my daughter.

You see, she was afraid of snow skiing because she had a really bad experience when she was young. But this year (she turns 30) it seems as if she will let nothing stop her from conquering her goals. That look on her face says it all.

Well, my new art journal was calling my name and so was the delightful smile in this photograph.













I was pleased with this sketch. I wasn't going for an exact likeness, but I was going for the spirit of the photograph. And I feel like I captured that.



So then I wanted to make a painting. Now that was my mountain to conquer.



And frankly, I'm a little discouraged after the effort but pleased at the learning curve I attempted today. I felt this one needed to be an acrylic painting and I still don't know what I'm doing although I have several books and have been teaching myself for awhile. It needs more work but I'm tired and not sure anymore about what to do.


I put it out there even though it didn't turn out as planned in hopes that someone who knows better than I can give me suggestions.


I couldn't help but add the words.



And play with the original in flickr.





I wanted to honor my daughter's courage.
And I found some of my own in the process.

9 comments:

Shelley said...

Beautiful! Turning 30 does something to your spirit that sets you FREE :) Way to go Joli...

L'Adelaide said...

what a lovely daughter you have! she looks like you!

as for faces, I think they are very challenging...probably easier for me if I start with geometry and move from there, otherwise they get wonkie...it's not something I do a lot of,for a reason! ;)

Kim Mailhot said...

Why are we always our harshest critics ? I love the painting and I think you did capture that courageous spirit very well. I feel it when I look at the face you created and in the mood you set in the piece. Now, does it look like an exact replica of your gorgeous daughter, or a true to life/realism painting, no. But does it have to be ? Maybe that is what the photo was for and your piece has another purpose ?Just a thought...

I love it anyway, for whatever that's worth ! You sure have a beautiful daughter as well as some juicy talent there, Madame !

Happy Thankful Thursday !

Robert A Vollrath said...

Do the best you can and don't worry about it. Great picture and fun art.

Odd Chick said...

mmm..I"m hearing a thread and theme through these comments - it's just that my skill has not quite met up with my taste... it'll get there

Unknown said...

I wouldn't have a clue about "skill" and "taste" or "geometry" etc. .... but the love really shines through. I really think you captured soul in her eyes (the windows)

Does she like skiing now? She looks like a very spunky and fun girl - someone who would fly down the slopes!

Karin Bartimole said...

That is a wonderful photo of your daughter - it really does show a determined, strong spirit shining! And I think your drawing and painting both capture that beautifully. Smiling portraits are especially difficult for me. I say bravo!!
xoxo Karin

a mouthy irish woman? ridiculous! said...

i think you did a beautiful job and the daughter is of the mother. quite beautiful....


xo

Anonymous said...

Thanks for leaving me a message! I love the painting of your daughter, and that she conquered her fears...and that she is aware that she even has them at her age. I am just learning to try to conquer mine, and to stop saying "when". When, I lose weight... when, I learn to do this, or that... maybe I just need to jump in and learn as I go....