"Hair Solutions"

 

 

6 x 8"

oil on panel

sold

In Washington DC, you can see many paintings by the famous portrait painter Gilbert Stuart.  Stuart's most recognized is of George Washington which you'll find in the National Portrait Gallery among the Presidents - the one featured above, Catherine Brass Yates (Mrs. Richard Yates) shares a room in the National Gallery of Art with other notable Americans.

In 1793, Stuart had just returned to America from a long stretch in England where he enjoyed popularity and recognition as being one of the lead portrait artists.  And a different America it was.  Catherine Yates is thought of as one of Gilbert's most famous paintings both for the artistic masterpiece that it is and, what is known as a symbol of this young country's rectitude - meaning moral righteousness.  Personally, I always get a kick out of looking at this portrait every time I'm visiting the National Gallery.

~  Keep wearing your mask and stay healthy.

"Federal Case"

9 x 12"
oil on masonite

A while back, I happened upon an exhibition of Gilbert Stuart's paintings - he was the choice artist for commissioned portraits of presidents and first ladies and whoever was important at the time. It was surprisingly stunning and well placed against the federal blue walls of the musuem.
I can't be sure who's portrait is in my painting - my best guess is Abigail Adams, who Stuart painted a dozen times throughout her lifetime.

Please click here for a larger view and purchase information.

"By George"

9 x 12"
oil on masonite
sold

When I was asked to do a painting for an upcoming show at 16 Patton, titled 'Contemporary Visions: Portraits & Still Lifes', I knew I would sway to the subject of portraits rather than the latter. And whether I was persuaded by watching the 'John Adams' series (which is incredible) or my reverence for Gilbert Stuart's portrait of George Washington, (formally known as the Landsdowne Portrait) - it seemed like a great opportunity to paint this piece.

Please click here for a larger view.