Free

For 20 years I had this image in mind. I have always been intrigued by women with dreadlocks. It also took me 20 years to acquire the skills to pull this painting off.
Go Go Joe and I were on a climbing expedition in Joshua tree National Park. Over the years we have spent many days scaling the wild and scenic rock formations. It was a warm and sunny spring day. The cactus and Joshua Trees were in bloom. Joe arrived with his beautiful young climbing partner, Nic. She had a wild spirit and was strong, young and living life to it's fullest. I instantly knew I wanted her for my model. A few weeks later Nic and I did a photo shoot for the painting on the beach in Santa Cruz. I had her jump in the air at least 30 times to capture the image.
The painting started with several layers of blue glazing. I went on line and found these cool Blue Jay images taken at his back yard bird feeder by Dan Ronn. We made an agreement and he gave me permission to use the images. Portraits are not my strong suit and it took a good year to finish this painting. It is still in my collection looking for a new home.
Free 48"x60" Oil on Canvas

1.75" Profile Gallery Wrapped