I paint in oil, especially when working outdoors or making a portrait.  Usually on canvas, but sometimes I like a change of pace and paint on board. 

During the winter months,  I like to paint with gouache which is pigment suspended in gum arabic which is odorless.  The best way to use this paint is on NUJABI paper.  It is handmade in India, very sturdy and deckled on all four sides.  As a consequence, the dimensions are slightly irregular.

My method to paint a portrait involves my subject sitting in my home studio, with a lovely view of the backyard.  I have learned to appreciate the experience of seeing slight changes in a face, so I do not use photographs. 

Most times, I can accomplish the portrait in five one and a half hour visits.  For the sitter it is an experience like no other, fun and interesting to see the progress of the painting.

Photos

To Gretchen:

“One of your main strengths in painting is your ability to work quickly and put down gesture and character of your subject.” 

Tom Fawkes, Portland painter