"Paintings have a life of their own that derives from the painter's soul." Vincent Van Gogh

Sunday, March 16, 2014

Yo Ho! A Pirates Life for Me!

Sam the Pirate / oil on canvas / 16x12
I must say Sam is the nicest Pirate I have ever met! He arrived ready for action with his wonderful hat and multiple props including a saber and musket, but relaxed into this wonderful pose for us. As he modeled, Sam told us that several years ago he was involved in an auto accident that resulted in an inability to open his left eye. He had to wear an eye patch for a while and apparently had to field a lot of questions about whether or not he was a real pirate. So he decided to become one! Sam belongs to several historical clubs that research pirate lore and facts and he is very well versed in the subject. He loves doing pirate reenactments and playing the pirate for children's functions!He was a serious and authentic model and he was a joy to paint!

18 comments:

  1. We can all use Sam the Pirate, Susan... sounds like you really enjoyed this llife painting class. You painted him beautifully, adding so many wonderful details. Love the colors and you did a great job with the folds in the fabric!!

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    1. He was great fun to paint - I never thought I would have occassion to paint a pirate and the opportunity delighted me!

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  2. Susan, dit vind ik weer echt goed geschilderd hoor, een echte piraat !
    ik wens je nog een fijne week,
    groetjes,
    Simonne

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    1. Thank you, Simmone - I do believe that having a subject that interests me and that I can become invested in is half the battle!

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  3. Sam sounds like a wonderful person - turning the accident around like that!!!
    As ever, you have created a superb portrait! And this one definitely does not look 19th c. French. :) You are so fortunate to have these great models.
    Kathryn

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    1. I do feel so fortunate to have such wonderful open studio sessions - its great fun, wonderful camaraderie with other artists and always a challenge!

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  4. What a great story! And how fun to have life drawing class with people dressed up as characters! And it's a wonderful painting! :0)

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    1. Yes, I didn't know how I would feel abut painting costumed figures, but I am thoroughly enjoying it.

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  5. You have such a great style Susan; it's immediately recognizable. The painting of Sam brought me right over and then I saw your portraits of the restaurant owner. All I can say is Wow lady, you've got game and I want to play.

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    1. Thank you so much, Linda - you really make my heart sing!

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  6. Well, this is just SO cool! What a wonderful addition to your colorful cast of characters. I love the purple, gold, red combo in this one. The pose is awesome too.

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    1. Thanks, Stephanie. I was awed when I walked into the studio and saw the pirate - such fun!

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  7. A very positive person and you painted him just great ! Wish you a happy weekend.

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Your comments are welcome and brighten my day!