The Creative Life - Barbara Trovillo

This past weekend some of my kids and their kids came to visit. As usual it was bedlam! We are the proud grandparents of eleven (11!) grandchildren. Eight boys and three girls. These children are the light of our lives. When they are all together, it is noisy and chaotic at times. Even so, time spent with them is time we cherish.

Over the last year, I have been working on painting watercolor portraits of them. They are all different. It's amazing to watch as their personalities emerge. It's been fun to portray them in a way that makes evident some aspect of their unique personality.

The portrait featured here is of my grandson, Christian. He is going to be 9 in November. Do you remember the old fashioned term "a good citizen'? It was used to mean someone who was considerate of others and went about his business in a respectful way. This is an accurate description of Christian.  He is just such a nice person who genuinely thinks about the welfare of others. Christian is a smart boy who is serious in his approach to things. The pose of him with the bow and arrow captures his concentration and determination. 

I chose to do this painting in watercolor. When I first started painting, I only worked with watercolor or gouache. I ventured into oil with trepidation. I found I loved the texture and layering possible with that medium. There is a spontaneity and freshness with watercolor though. I wanted to keep this painting simple so the focus would only be on the beautiful boy. I made a careful drawing then put down the colors sparingly. I added the trees in the background at the end. Knowing when to stop is important. It is just enough, I think. I am pleased with the outcome and more importantly, so is Christian!

Painting a portrait is a challenge and a pleasure. 

Stay well, Barbara

Commissions welcome.