Not quite sure what I saw staring back in me from that mirror in my dimly lit studio on that over cast two days. As I starred down the proportions, form, colors and shadows a character emerged, more elongated, like the figures I so enjoyed painting from the museum of El Greco’s.
I could feel the blue-ish cast highlights and warm obscuring tones on the figures face. My face. Trying to focus on what was important and giving some suggestion of the space I occupied.
I am inside here, this is me, my troublesome features test me to depict them accurately. I seemed at rest and peace, no rush as when dealing with a model and trying to get the information down before they sag or move so terribly. Stand still, as if it really mattered, I could just slowly move back into my proper place as the model and the painter in this self-portrait. This is where it all comes together. At least for me right now.
Self-portrait in warm shadows, 9 x 12 inches, oil on canvas panel
© 2011 Daryl Urig
