St. Nicholas

St. Nicholas

Oil on Panel

Commissioned

On Exhibit in the Basilica of St. Nicola in Bari, Italy

In the spirit of Christmas, this is a commissioned portrait of St. Nicholas of Myra. The painting will be part of an exhibit at his home church, the Basilica of St. Nicola in Bari, Italy. 

According to the society of St. Nicholas website, He lived around 300 CE and is said to have attended the council of Nicea (from where we get the Nicean Creed). His legends revolve around helping young people and the poor. These legends inspired future generations in later centuries in the form of St. Nick (celebrated in much of Europe) and Santa Claus (celebrated in America). 

Read more here:
http://stnicholassociety.co.uk

In this portrait, St. Nicholas, dressed in traditional bishop's attire, engages young children of all ages. He even holds an infant to remind us of the gift of the Christ Child. One of the children plays with a toy ship. St. Nicholas is considered the patron saint of children and sailors among many other groups. The lighting behind St. Nicholas alludes to the giving light of Christ that shines though the stories of the saint's life.

Angel

11"x14" Oil on Canvas

with Palette Knife

COMMISSIONED

Today's post is a commissioned portrait of Angel, a horse at the barn where my daughter rides. Fall is here—which is a great time to commission a portrait or conceptual painting from me. To order a commission, simply email me and we'll discuss the details.

Mother & Child

11"x14" Oil on Canvas

with Palette Knife

COMMISSIONED

30 Paintings in 30 Days Challenge: January—Day 28

Sometimes when I finish a painting, I feel a sense of gratitude to have been able to be a part of the subject's beauty. It is a joy and honor to have the opportunity to express this beautiful moment with my art. This portrait's true power is love.

Buddy

6"x6" Oil on Gessoed Panel

with Palette Knife

SOLD

30 Paintings in 30 Days Challenge—Day 27.

This is probably as close as I want to get to painting a portrait. Today's painting is of our friend’s Goldendoodle. His name is Buddy. I was amazed at how much expression there was to be captured in a dog’s portrait. I learned a lot from painting this fuzzy fella. 

Go ahead. You can say it. "Awwwwwwwwwe."