Defying defiance

Portrait in charcoal and pencil

This portrait conveys the audacity of hope. I had initially planned to shackle the subject with heavy locks of chains, clocks and padlocks. Would such heavy ornaments create visual distractions? Maybe simplicity is a better way to go?

A monochromatic palette was employed to heighten the drama of the painting. Each stroke was drawn carefully, with deliberate, considered attention.

The character was shrouded by a thick blanket of ominous darkness that threatened to overwhelm, suffocate. Yet, he seemed to be defying the oppressive forces around it, standing upright and unflappable.