Oil on Canvas 16" x 24"Tomorrow the theme of the daily painters is self-portraits. I was really looking forward to doing something fun with it until the robbery. Today was spent dealing with insurance people and data recovery so I didn't get into the studio to paint. To tell the truth my heart just wasn't in it. The other problem is I look kind of weird right now (er, more weird than usual). To celebrate my birthday we had a few folks over for a 50's themed dinner party. Since I was halfway there already, given my propensity for black turtlenecks, bongos and berets, I decided to go full beatnik daddy-o. I trimmed off the Santa beard and left the goatee which I dyed dark brown. To add to the authenticity I had my copy of Allen Ginsberg's Howl in my pocket in case an impromptu poetry reading was called for. I fear I may look like one of those sad men who use Clairol "just for men" a bit too long. I thought it would wash out but this stuff is good. I cut what was left of my beard really short and the grey is just starting to peek through. Before you know it I'll be getting the senior discount again.
I did this painting in 2005 after my beloved Vincent went to join his brother Theo in the morning stars.
24 comments:
Mark:
This such a wonderful painting, technically, compositionally, emotionally, etc. As an artist and a cat lover, it really is appealing to me. Today I received my copy of a great book, "Cats in Art" and I've had a great time looking through its many color illustrations. I didn't realize how many times cats are depicted in art throughout history. One painting is of the famous artist Ingres pictured sitting in his studio, where there is also a cat. I've come across several paintings of artists in their studios and there always seems to be a cat somewhere in the picture. Guess we go together like peanut butter and jelly. You carry on a noble tradition.
So thrilled to revisit this masterpiece! I was totally blown away when I this discovered this on your website. It is not fun to deal with insurance and the aftermath of such an event as a burglary. I had a devastating housefire back in 1998...what a head ache and a heartache for you I'm sure. My prayers are with you.
terrific. I liken that silly cat look to my childhood idol Norman Rockwell. :) You are truly remarkable, Mark!
Spectacular, Mark! The clarity, visual movement through the composition with Vincent held captive by love. Superb!!! Jeanne
Thanks, Bob.
I couldn't help but notice that two other self-portraits on the daily painters site today depicted the artist holding their cat. Not only their cat, but their Siamese or color-point cat. I can't image my studio without one.
Thanks, Beverly.
Thanks, Rebecca.
I, too, love Norman Rockwell. A lot of people think of him as merely an illustrator, but I think his work is brilliant.
Thanks, Jeanne
I did this portrait for the National Portrait Gallery competition back in 05. It didn't get in but the painting hangs in the studio near my easel and still makes me smile.
Great painting. Love the emotional content that shines through.
Really nice portrait. I especially like Vincent's expression. (I hope he's chasing a perpetually moving string in kitty heaven) Excellent painting.
Stephen and I have always loved this portrait of you and Vincent. It is not only well done but is really is the essence of our beloved Daddy-o Mark
Thanks, M
Belinda,
Vincent was quite the mouser on earth. Are there mice in heaven? And wouldn't that be hell for them? I like the string idea. Thanks for the kind words.
Little D,
I'm hip. We are two crazy cats. Dig?
Mark,
This was the stand out of the whole collection of portraits on dp.com today. I was immediately drawn to it....very warm and wonderful.
So sorry your mac was stolen.....we are an ALL MAC family. ;) Just because you had a bad thing happen, doesn't mean you have to go back to the dark side and get a pc again! ;)
Bummer....it kind of shakes your faith in humanity when something like this happens.
*Blush* Thanks, Kay.
While there were some things I grew to love about the iMac there were many things that drove me crazy. Also, many of the programs that I was comfortable with didn't work on the Mac, so I am indeed going back to the dark side. Can you say control-alt-delete?
This made me smile too. What a beautiful piece! Wow.
Thanks, Diana.
What a gorgeous portrait! It's just GREAT!!
Vincent and I thank you, Akiko
Made me smile. I really like your sense of humor that comes through your photo and painted self portraits. Much fun! I'm also a painter and found your site via a comment you made on another I was browsing. I like your work.
Regards,
Ann
Thanks for writing Ann. I love the photo of Mehitabel reflected in the window.
Hi Mark, what an amazing, amazing painting. I can't stop looking at it!! Your use of oils is simply inspirational.
I'm also a cat lover and it shows so much in this painting how much you love Vincent!!
This would have to be the best painting I've seen in a long time!!
Cheers Joá
Thanks, Joá
I just returned from the vets, having picked up the cremains of Vincent's sister Anna, the last of that bloodline. Four strays have entered our lives and are wonderful but I will forever miss my Vincent. He was a very special cat.
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