Thursday, December 17, 2009

DSFDF Artist-Exchange Challenge

DSFDF Challenge entry
acrylic on 10" x 8" x .75" on wrapped canvas


Reference Photo of unknown exchange artist

Most of you know about Different Strokes for Different Folks - DSFDF. It is an extremely well attended challenge just over 1 year, hosted by Karin Jurik, an artist in Atlanta. This Challenge was done last year and apparently it was so popular that Ms. Jurik repeated it this year. I wasn't painting at this time last year and did not know anything about this or any other Challenge, so I am very glad to be able to join it this year. There are an amazing 180 entries, that is 180 artists painting each other, compared to last year with 130 artist entries.

However, humbling, is the word that comes to mind. It is so intimidating to paint someone else, but I've looked closely at the 43 paintings entered so far and almost everyone tells of their own struggle with this challenge. I considered painting it over - and perhaps over again, but felt that all I would be doing is wasting time. It was a challenge, not a commission. Hopefully the learning from the project will suffice!

To the artist that I have been entrusted with, I am sorry that I am not a better artist. It would have been my pleasure to paint a wonderful likeness winning your approval. Please know that I would have liked to do a better job! Since you are also painting me, I can only hope that you are struggling as I did! My skin colors and facial detail are not my strong suit. I love portraits but so far haven't learned enough to do them justice.

Aside from my painting, this challenge and the work of the other artists is fascinating and a learning experience. Please take the time to visit DSFDF and see for yourself!

13 comments:

Autumn Leaves said...

I think you did handle her portrait beautifully, Beckie! And you've kept your own special style in the process. I love her smile, especially! And I've never attempted glass (as you've done with her glasses). I think you did an amazing job and I know she will be pleased! Keep up the good work! I cannot believe you've been painting for less than a year and are already being published! That is an accomplishment to be so very proud of! You are an inspiration and you are amazing!

dominique eichi said...

Practice makes perfect as we say and I am very happy you participated in the year end challenge of DSFDF we all need that practice and when it's combined with fun and support of each other it's even better. So let's all keep practicing. Well done on this portrait.

Peggy Montano & Paintings said...

Good job, Beckie.
I didn't get around to getting a decent photo to Karin but it was great fun last year.
keep painting.

Christine MacLellan said...

Becky, Olga is a friend of mine and I did not know she was doing this challenge. I knew it was her the minute I saw your portrait. You definatly captured her ! Good work.

Claire Beadon Carnell said...

I think you did a great job for this challenge!

tracie brown said...

good job!!

Carol Nelson said...

Hi Beckie. Nobody starts out being a fabulous portrait painter - you have to work at it. Keep painting and it will happen. At least you gave it a go, and that's what's important.

Olga said...

Beckie - I LOVE it!!! It has such a happy and harmonious feel to it...

I lust hope that you are happy with my little portrait of you (btw...love that hat).. www.catclawsstudio.blogspot.com

Thanks again for working on mine, Olga

Ann Rogers said...

Hey, looks like Olga loves your portrait of her, and I can see why. It's fun and full of character, nice entry!

Earthula said...

I love your portrait. These challenges are for the fun of it and it looks like you did have fun with it.

irinapictures said...

Beckie, you did this great!
Happy New Year and all the best to you in 2010. I wish your inspiration and talent grow further, your heart is so big, I see it in your works and your comments. Happy blogging!

Mary said...

This is a charming portrait, Beckie, which I think captures the subject's personality and spirit. You are brave to take on the challenge. As I continue landscape painting (and avoidance of any attempt at portrait work!), I am very impressed with your achievement.

irinapictures said...

Beckie, where are you? Are you OK? Many great interesting projects take all your time from blogging? I miss you, your posts and your comments. I hope you are OK and will soon return to blogging. See you!