I had a wonderful day at a workshop by Bill Kalwick today. Bill is a lot of fun, very knowledgable, and full of encouragement, especially to someone who hasn't painted in over a year. It feel so great to put brush to canvas, squinting and hoping to find the right values needed.
Oh baby Hayden! This adorable munchkin is a friend's baby. He's about 6 months old in this picture. When his mama was showing me his latest pictures, I tenatively asked if I could try to paint a portrait from the photo. She said "Sure!"
I had never painted a baby, a baby with yummy checks, a baby with an intent stare.... oh those EYES! They are really that blue. And his lashes are destined to entice any female that looks at him. I just love the way the painting turned out. 
My youngest has wanted to be like Steve Irwin since he was in first grade (he's finishing up 7th next week). When Steve tragically died, my youngest asked me to paint a portrait for him. After looking at a lot of photos, youngest chose the picture that was on the cover of People magazine. I finished this about a year ago but didn't have a blog to post then. My favorite part is his hair... I just loved the sun streaked blonde.