in memory Archives

I would like to share with you the creation of this coloured pencil portrait of Murad in six stages.

I am always fascinated by a portrait’s progress. Whether it is the approach taken by another artist, or my own work on the drawing board, I find myself captivated by the process and how a drawing evolves.

You may see in Murad that as the drawing grew his face changes in numerous ways. The main reference image for this drawing was a small passport photo which was out of focus, so it was really very challenging. What made it possible was the collaboration between myself and the client, Murad’s daughter. She guided the process with her feedback and additional photographs of her late father, and together we made something that will out live both of us. Murad’s portrait will, in time, be etched onto a black marble gravestone in his home counry of Turkmenistan, and will stand proud in the desert as a tribute to the aviation engineer, husband, father and friend that he was.

You can read more about Murad and his very special portrait in the post Murad – Commissioned Coloured Pencil Portrait

This portrait was a particularly poignant one to draw. Very sadly Sharon is no longer with us, and she is dearly missed by all who knew and loved her. This portrait was commissioned in her memory by a close relative, and features Sharon in her late teens whilst living abroad with her family.

I often think that the magic of portraiture is how it can capture a moment in time, and Sharon demonstrates that perfectly. In the moment that the photograph this was drawn from we see Sharon caught mid-movement, twisting around to see who has called her name, and in that instant she connects with the viewer as if we are right there with her.

A small run of fine art giclee prints were also made of this portrait so that Sharon’s portrait can live with her family in their respective homes, keeping her close by wherever they may go in the world.

‘The pictures arrived today. Thank you – I can’t tell you how I feel about the fantastic job you’ve done. I met with my sister at her house and gave her her print as a housewarming surprise. She was speechless too – we had a hug and a (big) cry together as we looked at it – I’m sure you can imagine the scene. Everyone is amazed at how detailed the portrait is – much praise for your talent. I’m taking another surprise print to France in September when we’re going to stay with Sharon’s son, so this will be the gift that keeps on giving!

The lovely image of Sharon with the promise of her whole life ahead is so poignant but I wouldn’t have missed it for the world. Thank you again so much from all of us.‘