What I am looking for to achieve when painting portraits, is to capture the light & colours in each individual & in doing so; other bigger goals are accomplished as a result of being diligent with these two conditions.

A great portrait I think has a combination of many attributes. Brushstrokes should be varied from the sensitive observational touches to bold courageous applications of thick impasto on highlights & other areas of visual impact.

I paint in a completely abstract way, never actually painting features but solely indulging in shapes, colours & tones. Out of this comes a likeness, emotions of the sitter, the essence of the person plus many more wonderful bonuses which I never take for granted, making this challenge so addictive & rewarding.

I have so many thoughts on portraiture and really hope for the person reading this statement to be inspired enough to have ago!

Best of luck for those who dare.