Impression Evergreen

"Lukas in Black and White" Colored Pencil Lukas is 20 years old and this portrait is a simplified description composed in black and white. Not intended to be a photographic likeness, the sitter’s unique personality is expressed through deliberate exaggeration. The young man’s head is close-cropped bringing his vigorous presence up close and personal. His jet-black hair is splayed off the page while some unruly strands hang down over the forehead. Luke’s bright eyes are the focal point so they are the most precise feature while there is less detail as the drawing radiates out to the edges. The sharp contrast between light and dark defines his appearance. The thick nose and full lips cast soft shadows that create the illusion of three dimensions. The prominent chin is the centerpiece of a rugged jawline, creating a rigid contour that is his most striking characteristic. The facial structure is built upon the foundation of a powerful neck that betrays the physical tenacity posse...

"Portrait of Lukas" Colored Pencil Emerging from a violet void, the Portrait of Lukas is carefully rendered with flecks of unblemished gold. The intentionally soft shading reflects the gentle temperament of an innocent soul. Invoking interest in this idyllic representation of adolescence is the tension created by contrasting the precise modeling of the face with the flattened grid pattern defining the much simplified shirt. The deep, blue-violet background forms a strong complement with the child’s pale, yellow-orange complexion. The sparkling tones expressing the naive character of someone so full of life. Influenced by his avocations, the heavy-handed line work, disentangled hair and detailed eyes is Anime inspired. A callow presence during disarray - like a kite in a hurricane or a ray of sunshine during a storm.

"Elijah" Colored Pencil It's been ten years since we lost Elijah. He became so sick we had to have him put down. It was one of the most difficult, heartbreaking experiences of my life. They said  "He was just a dog,"  but he was more than that. He was my best friend. We climbed some of Colorado's highest peaks together. I opened my heart wider than I ever had before. He would have died for me, I know it. There is no creature on earth more unconditionally loyal than man's best friend. Our faithful Sheltie proved that. It was tough at first but children and time healed the wound. They said  "Get another one,"  but it was too painful. I had a decent excuse, my youngest son has allergic reactions to most animals including dogs and cats. They said  "It's Colorado, dog capital of the world,"  but I just couldn't do it. After a decade of goldfish, hermit crabs, Russian tortoises and gentle prodding, I've finally relented...