Friday, January 27, 2012

Sweet Marie

In my last post, I talked about making a portrait of my mom, inspired by the style of artist Henri Matisse.
This is what i have done so far.


What I'm learning is that it is difficult for someone as constrained as me to let loose and to be as uninhibited as a painter like Matisse. Also, I'm working on an image of someone dear to me, in cut paper no less, so that is a challenge too. 

I did the face over and over, from memory and from a few photos, trying to capture the sweetness of my mum, as well as her ladylike quality. After she died, a couple who knew her told me that they always referred to her as 'Sweet Marie' and I thought that was lovely. I included a pillow meant to look like needlepoint, which she did often, her rose pashmina shawl around her shoulders, and a long skirt such as she would wear occasionally. I plan to finish it with a few more items which represent her, a window in the background as is often seen in Matisse's work, and a few more prints and patterns.

I definitely need more loosening up, but it's a start!

Here's wishing everyone a wonderful weekend!
Thanks for visiting!

10 comments:

Anonymous said...

Great so far! You've managed to capture her sweetness :).
Stay inspired!

fromyourmindseye.com said...

Lovely,Judy. I see you in your Mom.

Simone said...

A wonderful picture Judy! I especially like the hair and all the different patterned papers you have used. Your Mum looks very serene and ladylike. I thought I had left a comment in the previous post. Maybe I just thought it and forgot to write it! x

Libby Fife said...

I think you did a super job! The lines are wonderfully flowing, especially that collar. A great tribute to your mom too. Maybe several different versions would be a good idea? That way you could try out different ideas and styles. (Maybe even on another model?)

Unknown said...

What a wonderful tribute to your mother! I think you've done an amazing job here!

Shell said...

A wonderful way to honor your mom.

sharon said...

Your paper choices are so right, Judy. Though you've given her a whisper of a smile, I imagine wherever she is right now, her face is radiant in delight. Delight in your talents and your love for her as evident in this sweet tribute.

Karen L R said...

Judy, this is another lovely piece. especially nostalgic and sweet.

and finished on friday! congrats.

Eydie Kugler said...

Judy,

That was truly beautiful. I’m sure your mum would be so proud of you.
xoxo

Alice said...

Judy, this portrait is so lovely! Truly inspiring. Makes me want to do a portrait of my beloved mother. Like you, though, I am "constrained" about portrait quilts. Or maybe just "fearful" would be a better word to use! I've made one portrait quilt, but it was of our grandsons from the back so I didn't have to deal with their faces. Seeing this, though, more really than almost any other fabric portrait has made be eager to give it a go.