Changing Roles

My first exposure to figure drawing came in college where a lifelong appreciation of the discipline began. For the next three decades still life painting dominated my work but whenever possible I sought out live figure sessions. Until very recently the last ten years have been devoted predominately to the figure.

Portrait Study, oil pastel on toned paper
10" X 7", 2016

Throughout each stage figurative work played distinct roles in my development as an artist. First as an exciting learning exercise. Then as a welcome break from the solitude and static nature of still life. Most recently the figure has provided a much needed compelling and difficult challenge. Now I am aware of the figure taking on a new role as the binding agent to all my artistic pursuits.