A traditional portrait is a painting, and in time it becomes one of our most valued possessions. Its value increases as we remember all that it represents. It is the crystallization of a moment in life that we recognize and choose to remember. It may be the celebration of an important event, a special achievement: or just the awareness of a happy time that moves us to have a work of art created. This creation may be of us, or our loved ones, of parents, of children, of grandchildren. Corporate portraits, portraits of physicians and lawyers can add significantly to the office setting. I think that is the joint enthusiasm and hope of the artist and his client or corporate entity that assures that this work of art will remain and be able to successfully evoke these times. The fortunate, throughout history, have always had their portraits painted. The materials and techniques have changed and improved, but I believe the goals have remained the same. The traditional portrait should be a likeness expressing the personality of the sitter in a work of art that is aesthetically pleasing in itself. It can be enjoyed both as a portrait of an individual and as a painting in general. The artist works to interpret his subject's personality and to express it in a beautiful representation. I believe that the likeness must be there but also something else. In a successful portrait there is a presence, a genuiness, a striking feeling of life that only a work of art can radiate. Both we and the people we see are alive and moving and animated by our personalities. I think that it is this movement that allows us to see the beauty of individuals. A portrait that is also an imaginative painting will greatly enrich your home. It will add immeasurably to any room that it is in. As a background, real or imaginary settings drawn from the past or present can be created within the traditional portrait itself. Clothing and accessories may also be used to enrich your painting, or simplicity may be your choice. I think that it is the abundance of choices available that assures you of owning a painting that will express your personal taste in a continually satisfying way.
Earl Guedry can be reached at Studio@EarlGuedry.com 337.942.7856 Opelousas, Louisiana © Artist works, scans and web design protected by copyright. See copyright information for complete details. Site designed by A Stroke of Genius, Inc.