purple dancer, acrylic

purple dancer, golden fluid acrylic and acrylic on cold press paper, 21 1⁄4” x 17 3⁄8” framed

I painted this 20” x 16” portrait of a dancer, whose face is partially hidden in shadow, from a black and white photograph in golden fluid acrylic and acrylic on cold press watercolor paper. The painting is monochromatic in tone. I selected purple, a regal color that seemed well-matched for her demanding presence, and mixed up varying shades of it from a limited palette. I used strong contrast to highlight her striking features and bold brush strokes to match her demanding presence. I was captivated by her unflinching gaze, jaunty hair and beautiful long neck. The painting is unmatted and framed in a 3⁄4 inch black wood frame.

This painting is on display at the Oregon Society of Artists Gallery at 2185 S.W. Park Place, Portland, OR 97205 for the month of December, 2012 as part of the Works on Paper show. Gallery hours are Monday to Friday 1:00 PM to 4:00PM except holidays. After January 4, 2013, this painting is available for purchase online here on my website. For more information or to arrange a private viewing, please contact me at [email protected].