The Sniper (Robles)

by Godfrey J. Ellis – 12×16 acrylic 2020

This was painted for the same neighbor for whom I painted “Brothers” back on Dec. 12th. I offered to paint another one of the father in his dress uniform.  He was a Bronze Star Master Sergeant and had a chest full of medals. No, he strongly preferred this photo of him in his camouflage sitting in his sniper’s nest.  He offered to pay for the paint supplies ($80), which I was happy to accept.  The painting was incredibly intricate.  He and his wife were thrilled, and I had new paint, but I had some hesitation with the subject matter.  He pointed out where in the painting he had shot an Iraqi who was sneaking up to the U.S. compound the neighbor was guarding.  Part of war, I guess, but I have some misgivings.

Below is a photo of our neighbor holding his painting. He was very pleased with it.

Following are three photos of versions of the “Sniper’s Nest” painting as it gradually took shape.