Natalie Italiano

#59 Ricky- One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2012-02-23T00:30:00.001-05:00

"Ricky"

#58 Brianna -One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2012-02-21T00:30:00.002-05:00

"Brianna"

(Advice for other teens) "Know what's important to you, work at what you want, and love with all of your heart and you will have no regrets." (Most difficult issue teens are faced with today) "I think teens feel like they have to live up to ridiculous standards that are nearly impossible to reach."

I loved painting Brianna. There was something about her look that was timeless and very calm, and I tried to catch that feeling in my painting. Sometimes painting feels like meditation, and this was one of those times. On these occasions, I am reminded what a privilege it is to have to opportunity to paint.

#57 Melissa- One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2012-02-19T19:36:00.001-05:00

"Melissa"

(What do you think teenagers are really concerned about) "Today many teenagers are materialistic about every aspect of their lives. I believe teenagers today are more selfish than generous, and are concerned about having friends." (Advice for other teens) "...Always think about others. This is what parents have said since teenagers were children. However, when you do something for someone else, it will have a domino effect and will also make you feel good... Helping others is an important aspect of my everyday life. I know that sometimes the smallest of things can help others or make them feel good."

#56 Amelia- One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2012-02-05T20:59:00.000-05:00

"Amelia"

Sometimes when a model comes in, I am not sure how I am going to paint them. I wasn't sure about her sweater color, it was a very bright kelly green, but then I choose a teal background fabric, and I really loved the way the cool colors seemed to just come out of her skin tones in contrast. When in doubt I try to just jump in and move from there, making adjustments if necessary, rather than procrastinate at the beginning. Things flow more easily that way.

#55 Quinn - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2012-02-03T21:34:00.000-05:00

"Quinn"

(Advice for other teens) "Learn from yesterday, live for today, and hope for tomorrow." (Most difficult issue teens are faced with..) "Trying to fit in, but if you stop caring what others think of you, and be your own person you can be respected for that."

I encourage all of the teens posing for this project to wear whatever they want; I want them to present themselves the way they want the world (or me) to see them. I did ask Quinn if he could push his hair back, so we could see a little more of his face, but he insisted that he always wears it combed forward. I am happy with the way the painting came out, it feels very intimate to me.

#54 Elli - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2012-02-02T19:22:00.000-05:00

"Elli"

(Things that are important to you) "Education! Most people in the world are uneducated; some willfully ignorant, and others unable to learn. The government needs to stop making budget cuts in anything education related." (Advice for other teens) "Learn not to be vengeful. An eye for an eye will make the whole world blind."

#53 Elizabeth - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2012-01-26T22:39:00.000-05:00

"Elizabeth"

(Teenagers are really concerned about) "Honestly, I think teenagers are so wrapped up in their cell phones, computers, ipods, etc. that they are not that concerned with the world they live in. Instead, they are concerned with themselves and their world that they 'pay' attention to." (Advice for other teens) "I would tell other teens to always have good relationships with their families, because no matter what, your family will always be there. Other people in your lives will come and go, but your family will never leave."

Elizabeth was in my son's class in kindergarten, they went to the same school all the way through high school. I had not seen her since she was little. When I spoke to her on the phone to schedule her sitting, I envisioned the cute little a five year old girl that I remembered, with short bangs and a big smile. When she walked into the studio to pose, fourteen years later, it was quite a shock to see her so tall and beautiful and all grown up! We smiled and hugged, and I have no doubt that I must have looked very different to her too!

#52 Vincent- One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2012-01-24T19:46:00.036-05:00

"Vincent"

(Some of the things that are important to me are) "Music, food and family".

Vincent was really friendly and wonderful to work with. He is studying to be a chef.
The light on the models is pretty intense, and it can be hard on their eyes. It is easier for them to look away from the light. I notice that some of the models naturally look at me, and some don't. Both ways can create an interesting painting. In the beginning of this project, I thought I would do each portrait with the model looking straight at me, but it has evolved to be whatever seems comfortable for the model. Sometimes I ask them to look towards the side. I often wonder, does a portrait have a more "universal" quality when the subject is not looking directly at the viewer? I see many contemporary portraits where the model is looking away, often down to the side. Does this give the viewer a feeling of calm or reverie? Does this make it more comfortable for the viewer?

#51 Virginia- One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2012-01-19T21:51:00.000-05:00

"Virginia"

Virginia is one of three triplets, the first set of triplets I have ever painted, or met. I painted both of her brothers earlier in this project, and her mother wanted me to paint her, too. Virginia has Autism, and was not able to sit for her portrait, so this painting was done from a photograph. I tried to paint her portrait in the same "Alla Prima" manner in which I painted the others, even though I was looking at a monitor. I have to admit, it was really fun to work from a computer. Virginia's mother, Ann, is really dedicated to her children, and works very hard to provide Virginia with stimulating activities. One day I called and they were finger painting. Ann has created a beautiful and welcoming home, and Virginia's environment is calm, organized, and provides her with everything she needs. She was very cooperative when I went to photograph her, and understood what I wanted and communicated easily with her mom. Ann felt comfortable with me because I have a nephew with autism, and I have experienced some of what she is going through. My nephew is 21 and non verbal, and his mom, my sister, is also very dedicated and understands what he needs.

#50 Ritchie- One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2012-01-15T21:16:00.001-05:00

"Ritchie"

(What do you think teenagers are really concerned about today?) "Self-image. Today's media puts so much importance on what teenagers should be we all try to live up to a manufactured image". (Advice for other teens) "If you don't change yourself you have no right to complain".

Ritchie did a great job posing, but I struggled with this painting. More importantly, I learned a hard lesson about myself. Unfortunately, I said something clumsy and insensitive and made him feel bad. I took a picture of him near the end of the session, and I couldn't figure out the right setting for the camera and complained out loud that I couldn't get a good picture. His demeanor changed visibly after that, and when I asked him if he was okay, he said he didn't want to pose any more, and he was upset. It turns out he thought I meant that I couldn't get a good picture because of the way he looked. I realized how insensitive I had been, and apologized to him and explained that it wasn't him (he is a very nice looking young man), but it took a few minutes of us talking for him to not feel upset. I can't blame him, that could have made anyone feel bad! Here is a thoughtful statement from an email one of the painters working along with me sent me the following day, "It's one of those moments when I am acutely aware that these young people are walking a tight-rope between childhood and adulthood, and that as poised and graceful as they may be one moment, they still may need a steadying voice ... to help them regain their balance the next, lest they tumble..."

#49 Eric - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2012-01-03T01:00:00.007-05:00

"Eric"
(...things that are important to you) "Listening to music, creating music, my friends, family, Hannah, exploring myself and the world." (Advice for other teens) "Give yourself plenty of room to grow. Explore, because life is an adventure." (If you could do anything you wanted...) "I would watch a sunrise atop a mountain, spend a week at Camp Woodward, ride a bike across America."

I tried to paint with looser brushwork in this painting. Eric wore a tie-dyed t-shirt and was very laid back; this helped me to loosen up, too. When I am really aware and sensitive, I can feel an energy field between myself and the model, and in the room. Everything seems to contribute to the experience; the music, the other painters, the day. In the silence of a Quaker meeting there is a similar experience that is referred to as a "gathered meeting", when the energy is coalesced in the quiet room. This was one of those days. Its moments like this that make it all worth it.

#48 Brazyl - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2012-01-01T20:06:00.001-05:00

"Brazyl"
(Advice for other teens) "Set goals - whether they are short term or long term!" (If you could do or be anything you wanted...) "I would be the director of the FBI and investigate human trafficking."

Brazyl was serious young woman, obviously concerned about the human condition. She wants to attend Georgetown University, and major in international relations. She was wonderful to paint; the cool tones in the shadows on her skin contrasted beautifully with the warm tones in the lights.

I decided to try making the image X-large this time. Usually I make them large. I am not sure, and I would love to get your feedback. Happy New Year!

#47 Grace - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-12-29T01:30:00.029-05:00

"Grace"
(What are some of the things that are important to you) "The things I believe in are what are important to me, they are the only things that I have that are truly mine. The people I surround myself with are also very important to me; an emotional connection with someone is one of the most important things in the world."

Grace wrote an article about my project for the Sept-Oct issue of the Auduban High School paper, The Parrot. After she posed, she came in and interviewed us (the Monday night group). I think she did a wonderful job, and I am including her article below.

South Jersey Artist Portrays 100 South Jersey Teenagers

by Grace Fair

Parrot Staff Writer

The smell of oil paint, the quiet sound of music playing in the background, and five easels standing tall around the room—these are the smells, sounds and sights of five painters hard at work. Skilled painter Natalie Italiano has dubbed her project 100 Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers. The term “alla prima” refers to a method of painting in which the artwork is completed in one session. In alla prima style, pieces usually have thick layers of paint and play on light and expression, much like impressionistic paintings. With eight other painters at her side, as well as support from local art teacher Jim Repenning, Italiano elected to take on such an extensive venture for several reasons. “I saw an exhibit that someone else had done of a similar project where she came in and she just decided to paint every-one in her town. She lives in Iowa and rented a storefront and anyone who was willing to pose she

painted them and did it for a year. “I saw the exhibit of it and I was just blown away. I thought they were so cool and interesting for portraits to be, rather than something really formal of wealthy people, everybody that was represented.” Having chosen teenagers for her subjects as well as using the spirited alla prima type painting, Italiano also hoped that her project would help her to process the fact that her youngest child had gone away to college. “One of the things I also wanted to do was just learn how to paint alla prima; I felt like most of what I did had been very academic. It’s kind of like being a classical musician and wanting to play jazz. Playing jazz is more than just going into your garage and playing it. I guess I wanted to get a little freer and more expressive. I also wanted to set a goal, and create this sort of historical document,” said Italiano. While trying to hone her own skills, Italiano is also sketching the cultural identity of today’s youth. “I wanted to be able to say something about our time. So when you’re looking back you not only get an idea of how everyone dressed, but you also saw it

through the expressive eye. Really you see through nine eyes because everybody who’s painting sees things their own way.” More information can be found online at Italiano’s blog,

natalieitaliano.blogspot.com. Also, for information on Repenning Fine Arts, visit repenningfinearts.com,

or email Mr. Repenning at: Info@Repenningfinearts.com

A portrait of AHS student Ginny Froonjian by Italiano.

#46 Joshua - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-12-23T01:25:00.022-05:00

"Joshua"
(Teens are really concerned about) "Making good friends they can count on." (Advice for other teens) "Don't give into what other people think of you."

#45 Becky - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-12-21T01:18:00.058-05:00

"Becky"
(Advice for other teens) "Although life may be tough, it always goes on. There will be bad days, but more often there will be great, sometimes amazing days. Things aren't ever as bad as they seem."

Becky was a fabulous model, so full of life! She insisted on smiling for her portrait, which is not easy for 4 hours. She reminded me of Cameron Diaz, but unfortunately my portrait doesn't do her justice!
This was painted on Raphael oil primed portrait linen, with no tone on it. It was hard for me to paint on white canvas, I am so used to starting from a mid value grey ground. The surface was very smooth and slippery, and hard to get the paint to stick on until there was a second layer. I can see why oil primed linen might not be the best choice for alla prima painting, unless it has the right tone applied first. Switching from bristles to softer sables helped, because the bristles kept scratching the surface. I struggled with the surface for the entire painting, and didn't really get where I wanted with this one.

#44 Stephanie - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-12-19T01:30:00.003-05:00

"Stephanie"
(Advice for other teens) "Don't let other people stop you from being who you are because in the end they are just another voice blowing with the wind." (If you could be anything you wanted) I would be a guardian angel to protect my friends and the innocent and always be there for them when they need me..."

Stephanie, who is Puerto Rican American, was wearing funny goggles with cat ears on her head, and I didn't quite get them resolved. She was a little tough on the outside, wearing leather and chains, but compassionate and caring on the inside. She wants to help children who are coping with the difficulty of divorced parents.

#43 Emily - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-12-17T01:30:00.001-05:00

"Emily"
"I think (teenagers) are only concerned about looks and popularity, not about what's really important." (The most difficult issue teens are faced with today is) "Insecurities. I think that teens are facing thoughts that say they're not good enough."

This was a fun evening. Emily was very energetic! I loved the canvas. Same from New Traditions.

#42 Shaniqua - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-12-15T01:30:00.001-05:00

"Shaniqua"

(Advice for other teens) "Don't let anybody keep you down or degrade you...I think what teens are

most concerned about today is fitting in and having fun."

I loved this canvas, it was a portrait linen from New Traditions. I really tried to push myself to paint thicker than I usually do. I made the base color of the skin thicker, and it was nice to work into. I want to push a transition in the background colors in my next paintings.

#41 Ashlee - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-12-13T22:10:00.000-05:00

"Ashlee"
(Advice for other teens) Slow down, stop trying to grow up so fast, you're still a kid so stop being an adult." (Things that are important to you) I find my family to be very important...and what I can do in my cousin's lives...I want a good job so I can pay for my bills and give my cousin's a good life."

I saw Ashlee and her grandmother in my local grocery store, and I was so intrigued by her distinctive look, that I couldn't resist going up to them and asking if she would like to pose for this project. She had purple streaks in her hair, and with the blue in the highlights, she was very colorful and wonderful to paint! This painting was done on cotton canvas.

#40 Mia - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-12-10T01:30:00.000-05:00

"Mia"
(Advice to other teens) Keep Focused on your dreams no matter what comes your way...I would love to travel and discover different cultures, languages and ways of living."

#39 Vanessa - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-12-08T01:30:00.014-05:00

"Vanessa"
(Advice for other teens)"Be yourself, enjoy the simple things in life and don't rush through your youth...I would love to help the earth as well as sick people and animals."

I like this painting very much, it has emotion and energy. Her hair was a challenge but it turned out alright. I think I need to push the difference between the values in the lights. When I am painting, the shifts seems strong enough, but later on, they don't. I had a blue filter over the light for this painting, and I think it helped. The artificial light can be so warm.

I though it might be interesting for anyone following this blog to see some of the artists painting along with me and the studio, Repenning Fine Arts , where this series is being painted. This is most of the Monday night group (missing is Nancy Mullins).

Mary Zaccone

Adelaide D'Antonio

Katherine Sendecki

View of the studio from the model's stand,
with paintings by Jim Repenning gracing the walls.

Our lovely model Vanessa, during a break

#38 Joe - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-12-06T01:30:00.020-05:00

"Joe"
(Teens today are concerned about) "Fitting in with the stereotypes that consume our generation as a whole." (Advice for other teens) "Stay off the straight and narrow and really go out and make your own path."

#37 Allison - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-12-05T01:30:00.002-05:00

"Allison"
"Teenagers are most concerned about doing well in school, because grades are important to get into a good college... Advice I would give to other teens would be to keep doing well in school, and to follow your dreams and to never loose hope."

This canvas was lovely to work on, its Frederic's Acrylic Primed Portrait linen, with a thin tone of Rublev Lead White (Natural Pigments), diluted with turps and a little stand oil. I tinted white mixture with Burnt Sienna and Ultramarine Blue (visible in the upper right hand corner). What I realized is that the tone is as important as the canvas! I originally didn't like this canvas, it felt too "mechanical", but by adding the lead white tone to the surface, it accepted the paint much better, especially for an Alla Prima painting done in one session. Linen is often slippery to begin with, and the first coat really doesn't cover well. This can be problematic when doing a painting in one session. The lead white modifies the surface and creates a semi-absorbent ground to work on, which is easier to cover right from the beginning. **Caution** - Lead white is hazardous, follow the safety precautions carefully!

#36 Yupari - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-12-04T01:45:00.070-05:00

"Yupari"
(Things that are important to you) "Personal growth, and knowing that I am always progressing in my craft. Hope for a bright future."

I really wanted this painting to turn out well because Yupari was a full time student at Studio Incamminati at the time, in one of my classes, and a really good artist! I started on a white canvas, which I don't usually do, and rubbed an imprimatura layer of burnt sienna on the canvas and started by wiping out the light masses. I had to start over because I didn't like my first attempt, but its easy to wipe the imprimatura back down. Fortunately, it turned out well in the end. I loved painting his glasses. We all miss you Yupari!

#35 Tina - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-12-02T01:30:00.001-05:00

"Tina"
(Advice to other teens) "Don't sell out. Do what you want, not what is considered 'practical'. A lot of people think careers like accountant are the practical course. But everyday, technology is making practical jobs obsolete. The only thing a machine cannot do is be creative. So nurture and express your creativity!"

I love this quote from Tina. Wise and idealistic at the same time.

#34 Nicole - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-12-01T01:30:00.000-05:00

"Nicole"
(Teens are concerned about) "School and their friends or family. I also think some are concerned about more worldly or political issues...Enjoy the little things."

Nicole arrived in a "Hello Kitty" hat, and we loved it! For the most part I don't know who the teens are in advance, and I don't suggest what they should wear. I want them to present themselves the way they want to be seen, and its been really interesting to see who comes and what they wear or what their hair is like. I wished I had more time to work on this painting, but I really am sticking to the 4 hour deadline I set, and only working on these paintings from life.

#33 Marcy - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-11-30T08:30:00.049-05:00

"Marcy"
(Advice for other teens) "Don't be afraid to look or dress differently...so what if they think you're weird; embrace it!" (Some things that are important to me are) "Making people happy and being happy. I want to design logos/products for organizations that do good for society and also be involved in some type of community arts program."

I was very happy with this painting because I was able to get into the shadow areas and develop the different color shapes. It was really fun to paint. I love the red streaks she had in her hair.

#32 Dante - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-11-29T08:30:00.001-05:00

"Dante"
"Teenagers today are concerned with all of the wrong things. They are materialistic. There is a lack of individuality and 'feeling' among today's teenagers... appreciate what's around you before its gone."

One of the questions I am often asked is how do I find the models for this project? I saw Dante working in a store in my town, and was struck by his interesting look and his sensitive manner. He is a musician, and was very interested to see our paintings evolve during the breaks while he posed.

This is painted on alkyd primed linen from New York Art Supply, suggested to me by Rob Liberace for alla prima work. Alkyd paint is a type of quick drying oil paint, and it easier to cover when painting alla prima than oil primed linen, which is initially slippery. This canvas was pretty absorbent. The right surface to paint on is a very individual thing for each artist, and depends on various aspects their technique, including how thick their paint is and what kind of medium they use.

#31 Tori - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-11-27T08:30:00.017-05:00

"Tori"
"I think teens are concerned about finding who they are as a person both socially and academically, whether they are aware of it or not... I would advise other teens to always respect yourself and prepare now for the future."

#30 Mackenzie - One Hundred alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-11-26T14:59:00.000-05:00

"Mackenzie"

MacKenzie is the grandson of Annya, one of the painters working along with me. He was a great model, and fun to paint, but I'm not crazy about this painting. The transition from light to shadow on the left side of his face is too abrupt, and doesn't look three dimensional. Sometimes I wish I had more more time in these four hour sessions, and this one falls in that category. I can easily spend too long in the preliminary drawing stage, and become obsessed with getting the shapes perfect, only to fine I don't have enough time to develop the form. I am watching this though, because I think there is something there that I need to understand about myself as a painter, because I love the flat design aspect of things.

It has been 8 weeks since I have posted on this blog, and I confess that I am about to paint portrait #85! I am going to try hard to post frequently so I can catch up. I think I hit a wall at the time I stopped posting, it had been just over a year since I had started this project, and I had just completed painting #64. I started to loose my energy and focus and was getting tired of doing it, but I am feeling back on track and re-energized! I did not realize what a commitment it would be to paint this many portraits, all of teenagers, the same size, and in only four hours. I am glad I was public with this project, because I was very tempted to quit when I reached painting #70, but I can't quit now because made a commitment to do this. But I may never paint a square again when this is over! Have any of you experienced this kind of thing in painting a series? I would be interested to hear about your experience.

#29 Carla - One Hundred alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-10-02T21:37:00.007-04:00

"Carla"

"Art is important to me. I really enjoy doing pottery. I would like to go to Japan one day".

Carla and Abby are sisters. They are one quarter Cherokee Indian. Its always fascinating to me to see where Americans come from, so many of us are a mixture of so many ethnicities and nationalities.

#28 Abby - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-09-07T07:00:00.004-04:00

"Abby"

"Learning about God is important to me. Also my friends and family and learning to run and do yoga...learn to be yourself. Everyone is unique."

I painted this on a linen that I didn't like, so I tried gessoing and toning it on the back and painting on that side instead. It was a really textured surface and I wasn't crazy about using it for a portrait. She was a great model and I would love to paint a longer painting of her.

Alla Prima Portrait Class at Studio Incamminati this Fall

2011-09-05T08:00:00.001-04:00

New Offering

Alla Prima Painting
Natalie Italiano
Wednesdays, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Sept. 21 – Dec. 14 (No class Wednesday, Nov. 23)

Tuition $499

Alla Prima, also called “direct painting,” translates from the Italian as “at first go.” Characterized by expressive, painterly brushwork, Alla Prima paintings are completed wet-on-wet in one session. During each class students complete several studies or one portrait. Exercises include both limited and full-color palettes. Concepts covered include: anatomical landmarks, basic planes of the head, values, color relationships, edges and paint handling. Concepts and methods of figurative painting taught at Studio Incamminati will be covered including “grisaille,” “duo tone” and color study, and are explained by instructor demonstrations and examples. The goal of Alla Prima painting is to achieve a final look in one session and to develop a greater understanding and facility of painting process and editing.

Instructor Natalie Italiano studied with Nelson Shanks and at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. She received a Certificate of Excellence from the Portrait Society of America’s International Portrait Competition, and has been juried into numerous shows including the Salon International of the Greenhouse Gallery and c the Oil Painters of America Eastern Regional Exhibition. Her portrait and still life paintings are in numerous collections. She has completed 65 paintings for her current project, "One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers".

www.studioincamminati.org/evening
Register by phone by calling Studio Incamminati at 215-592-7910.

#27 Jenna - One Hundred Alla Prima Paintings of American Teenagers

2011-09-04T11:38:00.002-04:00

"Jenna"

I felt a lot of intense emotions surrounding Jenna. One of the artists painting along with me did not like the red background I choose; she felt that soft background colors best expressed teenagers, but I didn't see it that way. I picked the red cloth not for aesthetic reasons, but as an emotional response to the vibe I felt around the model.

Sionna #26 - One Hundred Alla Prima Paintings of American Teenagers

2011-08-27T19:32:00.002-04:00

"Sionna"
"Most teenagers are really concerned about their schoolwork and personal life, and how to create a balance between the two. (Advice to other teens)...just enjoy life and try not to stress over the little things that don't really matter in the long run."

Sionna is the sister of my daughter Olivia's best friend, Alana, so it was very special for me to paint her. The pose looks simple enough, and she never complained, but her mom told me later that her neck really hurt during the pose. I see it now in her expression. I think its hard for these young models to sit for four hours (they do get a break every 20 minutes), and I have to be really careful not to start a pose which may seem easy at the beginning, but could become difficult later on in the session.

Joe # 25- One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-08-07T15:14:00.001-04:00

"Joe"

"(Teenagers are really concerned about) Nothing, that's the beauty of being a teen. Enjoy everything."

I wish it were that easy. For some reason, this particular canvas, which I really like ( New Traditions lead primed portrait linen) keeps buckling even though it is really tight when I first stretch it. You can see on the left hand side. I am not sure why this is happening, but it happens every time.

Molly #24 - One Hundred Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-08-04T11:04:00.000-04:00

"Molly"

"Be optimistic. Nothing is really that bad as a teenager, just focus on having fun. "
Molly filled in for us last minute when another model didn't show up, so we only had 3 hours. She had a very dramatic look, I would have loved to have more time painting her.

Alexa #23 - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-07-20T11:44:00.022-04:00

"Alexa"
"I think teens are concerned with fitting in and discovering who they really are." (Advice for other teens) "I would like to tell teens that they should just be themselves and always be a good person to everyone, and to always do what makes you happy."

Molly #22 - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-06-23T10:12:00.001-04:00

"Molly"

It was special to have Molly pose because her grandmother, Jane King, who is a wonderful artist, was painting along with us. Posing is not easy for teenagers, but when Molly ran from the model stand and threw up, I realized what a trooper she was. I love this type of profile, it reminds me of the wonderful Renaissance portraits.

Jack #21 - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-06-12T16:27:00.001-04:00

"Jack"

"In today's society, its upsetting how careless teenagers are. However, if a teenager has passion for something, most (people) are surprised at how determined the child can be. Unfortunately, that's not the case with most teenagers... Don't be afraid to stick out from the crowd - I learned this lesson and I feel as though I am more outgoing and have many more friends."

Jack was so funny and was so much fun to paint! He kept us laughing the whole time. I really like the yellow background, but several of the artists working along with me objected to it. I wanted to paint it with his red hair, and he seemed to be such a sunny personality, it just felt right (I over rode their objections). Any thoughts on this?

Kiera #20 - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-06-01T10:30:00.001-04:00

"Kiera"

"I really wish I knew what I wanted to be, but if I could be anything I wanted, I would want to be someone who goes around the country helping those who are less fortunate. I watched an episode of 20/20 about the children of the Appalachian Mountains and it changed my life. I went to West Virginia and helped those kids and if I could afford to help families like the one I helped last summer I would do that. I love seeing other people happy because that’s what makes me happy".

I was really happy with the composition of this painting, I think the shapes work well. I loved painting Kiera, she has so much spirit, and I have known her since she was a baby. Her mom is one of my closest friends and today is her birthday. Happy Birthday Susan!

Julia #19 - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-05-26T08:05:00.000-04:00

"Julia"

"Don't forget to do what you love, have plenty of joy in your life, and learn to laugh at your self.

Katie #18 - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-05-08T17:15:00.000-04:00

"Katie"

"Look for truth inside oneself".

Happy Mother's day to all of you who are moms, and to all of our moms!
Part of the inspiration for me to do this project was my own children, who were both away in college this year. This was the first year in 21 years that I did not have children under my roof, and I have mixed feelings about it. I love having room to breathe and more time to devote to my art work and my husband, but I miss them a lot and sometimes the house feels empty without them. Painting these teenagers has been a helpful way for me to go through this life transition. I loved Katie's expression in this painting, she was proud, beautiful and elegant.

Ginny#17 - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-04-24T11:38:00.000-04:00

"Ginny"

Happy Easter! We couldn't ask for a more beautiful day in South Jersey, or more of an expression of renewal and rebirth. Ginny arrived for this sitting wearing a black hoodie and black T-shirt. I loved her look! The feeling I got from her was independence and strength, and I choose the red background to express this and also to complement her dark colors. I tried to leave strong splashy strokes of color in the background to capture her energy, using long, floppy Langknickel sable brushes to do this (5590 series). I used them throughout the painting, and it forced me to work in a different way, which is part of what I want to push myself to do in this series. Its amazing how easy it is to keep doing the same thing, unless you consciously try to do something different. I find switching materials and tools helps me to stretch and experiment, but it can feel out of control for I while. I am getting more comfortable with this feeling, and am able to ride it out. Unexpectedly, I am learning patience. This painting is done on Frederick's "Rix" linen, toned with lead white tinted gray. It made a great surface.

Kayli #16 - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-04-17T22:55:00.000-04:00

"Kayli"

"Love yourself the way you are and always wear a happy face no matter the odds."

This painting was really fun to paint, the colors were really exciting and I felt very inspired by Kayli's look and fun spirit. I loved the strong colors in the shadows of her pink shirt, and the colors in her skin tones. I used two light sources in this painting, and put a cool blue filter over the main light, which created an interesting effect. The second light was directed into the shadows and made them lighter, and there were lots of beautiful reflected lights. I would love to paint a series of her like this, in different poses. Her dark eyeliner accentuated her cool look.

Patricia #15 - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-04-12T08:40:00.000-04:00

"Patricia"

"Laughing in the face of adversity is one of the greatest skills to have in life.....I'd love to find a job I'm passionate about, possibly as an engineer. I'd like to make a difference with my work".

Sometimes, when I am painting these portraits I go through a phase where it feels out of control, like I have lost my bearings completely. This used to throw me, I would get really nervous and then I really would loose my way. Now, when that feeling comes, I notice it, but ignore it like an unwelcome guest, and I seem to be able to regain my balance and keep on going. I think this is an important skill for an artist to develop. Its an inherent part of the creative process.

Cameron #25 - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-04-07T08:19:00.000-04:00

"Cameron"

I am skipping out of sequence here because "Cameron" was just awarded "Best Portrait" in the Philadelphia Sketch Club's 148th Annual Small Oils show. There will be a reception for the show this Sunday, April 10th from 2-4. The Sketch club is the oldest arts club in the country, and had many illustrious past members including Thomas Eakins. It is located in Center City Philadelphia at 235 Camac Street. I loved painting this portrait, and Cammy was such a pleasure to work with! She is another one I have known since she was a baby. I was struggling with this painting, the surface was really dry, and it wasn't until the last hour, when she played Lady Gaga for us, that I relaxed and it finally came together. This is painted on Claessens #13 DOP linen with a layer of lead white on it to make it less slippery.

Clare #14 - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-04-04T08:03:00.000-04:00

"Clare"

"Especially early in high school, it seems like everyone is watching you, judging you, what you need to realize is they're not, and that will make you feel more comfortable with yourself. High school gets better!"

Clare grew up practically next door and I have watched her grow from a baby into a beautiful young woman. It was very interesting, and a privilege, to paint someone I have known for their entire life. I tried Langnickel sable brushes for this painting, they were very long and floppy and felt difficult to control. It was a challenge to get used to them, but I stayed with it for the entire painting and this taught me how to manipulate them and understand their unique quality.

Devon #13 - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-03-30T13:46:00.000-04:00

"Devon"
"Don't try to fit in with the popular crowd. Its really not worth it... Some (teenagers) are concerned about grades, some about popularity, and some about relationships. I personally go with the flow of things, but still remain focused on schoolwork and friends".

In this painting I put a cool, blue filter from a theater supply store over the light. It created a cooler light source than our usual warm halogen light, and affected all of the colors. You can especially see it in the highlights of her hair. This is something we often do in color study classes at Studio Incamminati, in order to push the students to see the influence of the light source on the colors. I wanted to see if I could approximate daylight.

Maria #12 - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-03-27T21:06:00.000-04:00

"Maria"
I added two layers of Rublev's lead white ground to this canvas, tinting the second layer gray, and applied it with a palette knife. It created a wonderful buttery surface to paint on, but the way I applied it left "lap" lines, which I didn't intend. I have known Maria and her parents since she was little, which always makes it special, and I have painted her portrait before, holding her cat. Couldn't help thinking about Sargent's beautiful painting of the Capri girl while painting this. I am learning to work faster, but still finding only four hours to be quite a challenge.

Simone #11- One Hundred Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-03-25T07:00:00.020-04:00

"Simone"
Simone looked like a she could have been a model for the Renaissance painter Botticelli. What a pleasure and a privilege it is to paint these interesting young people! I paint almost exclusively with a brush, but in this painting I decided to try a palette knife to apply the background.

"The Birth of Venus" by Sandro Botticelli, 1485

# 10 Mack - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-03-24T07:00:00.001-04:00

"Mack"
I am still working out my alla prima process, and I want to experiment with working in a more painterly way. This painting feels a little too safe; I want to experiment and try to work in new ways but I am not sure how I am going to do this yet. I have a quote from choreographer Twyla Tharp on my refrigerator to help guide me. "Venturing out of your comfort zone may be dangerous, yet you do it anyway because our ability to grow is directly proportional to an ability to entertain the uncomfortable".

# 9 Jane - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-03-21T09:00:00.004-04:00

"Jane"

I have been trying out different types of canvas for this project, preparing it different ways in search of a surface that I like for alla prima. This painting is done on Claessens #13 DOP, toned a cool middle gray using Rublev's lead white, with a little burnt sienna and ultramarine blue added. Oil primed linen is slippery and doesn't cover well in one session, so I thought using lead white, which is the leanest white, in the tone mixture would create a dryer, more semi-absorbant surface, and would be easier to work on. I am no expert at this, but maybe I will be by the time I get to 100! I welcome any suggestions you have if you have experience with this.

# 8 Sade - One Hundred Alla Prima Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-03-20T09:09:00.000-04:00

"Sade"

Matt #7 - One Hundred Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-03-19T09:00:00.004-04:00

"Matt"
"High school is four tiny years of your entire life. Should you have a good time and make friends? Sure. Is it unfair when sometimes you're faced with bullies or other negative influences? Definitely. But you have to keep on walking forward; years later you'll look back on your teenage years and they'll be so far back and look so silly, you'll just laugh at all the bad times and the good times. So right now, in this moment...just always look on the bright side of life, really (advice for other teens).

Faith #6 - One Hundred Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-03-17T09:00:00.002-04:00

"Faith"

Faith's portrait was the first one I liked. I was a little nervous about the commitment I made to do this project, not really knowing how I was going to paint a portrait in 4 hours, but during this painting I realized I could do it. She was very serene and I tried to tap into and communicate that feeling; she eased me along without even knowing it.

Ellie #5 - One Hundred Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-03-16T21:52:00.000-04:00

"Ellie"

"Let your children make mistakes. Don't break out the whips or the scolding. Let them grow and learn. Guide, don't shove" (suggestions for parents).

Ashley #4- One Hundred Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-03-15T09:00:00.001-04:00

"Ashley"

Ashley is a student at Repenning Fine Arts in Audubon, New Jersey, where I am painting this series. In the upper right hand corner, you can see the cool blue-gray tone that I use to prepare the canvas.

Steph #3 - One Hundred Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-03-14T22:13:00.005-04:00

"Steph"

Steph arrived to pose for us with a long, green wig, and we decided to go with it. Of course, we named it "It's not easy being green." In this painting I am trying to work out how much I can get accomplished in 4 hours, what I want to include, and what I can leave out. One of my goals in this series is to experiment. I didn't get all of the original brown "grisaille" covered, some of the brown under painting is showing in the shadows on her neck.

Danielle #2 - One Hundred Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-03-11T21:30:00.000-05:00

"Danielle"

Ian #1 - One Hundred Portraits of American Teenagers

2011-03-10T23:41:00.019-05:00

"Ian"

This is the first painting in this series. It was painted on a panel, and measures 12 x 12. I decided I prefer to work a little larger, and the rest of the paintings are 14 x 14. I also decided I prefer canvas, so I changed that too, for now. I have known Ian since he was a baby, his family are very close friends of mine, so it was special to start the series with him as the model. He is a musician and plays the violin, and we listened to an amazing play list he made for the entire session.