The Smirk (Foell)

by Godfrey J. Ellis – 16×20 Acrylic Nov. 2021

This young missionary was reluctant to have her picture taken and a portrait done but everyone urged her to do so. She agreed, but wanted it “non-traditional.” This photo with her winsome smirk was her choice of the photos and it was a lot of fun to paint all the details. The challenge, of course, was to try to catch the cheeky smile and the wisp of hair across her face. Below is the reference photo.

Here is a photo of her with the portrait. She had been reluctant to have it done but was thrilled with the final product.  She especially loved how Godfrey had painted her ultra-curly hair.  And with that is a photo of yours truly with her.

Below are some photos of the painting as it took shape. To capture the look on her face, a used a very detail grid pattern as you will see in the first photo.

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