The Making of A Portrait
setting up the background
One of the most fascinating sessions/lessons of the Australian Art Workshop Tour at Genius Loci last September…was the Portrait Session…with Michael asked to be the model. As the group circled all around, armed with their sketch pads and paints, the techniques and pointers of drawing portraits were explained and illustrated. I found it mind-boggling to observe Trevor’s rapid, instinctive assessment and then his supremely confident sketching/outlining of the basic proportions of Michael’s head and face!
outlining the facial proportions – a fundamental phase
developing the contours
shading
smudging and softening the all-important shading
As Trevor worked he emphasized and illustrated the importance of light, observing its source and the consequential shading, necessary to provide depth.
Generously and graciously Trevor presented / gifted his amazing portrait to an excited Michael. He enjoyed the experience immensely and treasures the portrait. How Trevor so “easily” captured and portrayed Michael’s features, typical expression…his very essence – seems like magic. The Portrait Session was an amazing afternoon experience!
To say goodbye, we gathered for a leisure Farewell Dinner of bruschette with a mix of tomatoes, garlic and basil from our very own vegetable garden followed by homemade cannelloni. Maurizio’s Genius Loci Rosso di Montefalco DOC 2006 wine was enjoyed by all as a gorgeous full moon came to say hello…and goodbye – during dinner!
Departure day came all too soon – the 12 days flew by as we got to know each other better each day. Trevor plans on returning next year and we hope some of these friends will come back with him! Until then, we have wonderful memories of the Creative Energy that permeated every nook and cranny of Genius Loci.
