Casey
Casey (2019)
8½x11 Pastel on Pastel Paper
Original is Sold
I know that having the perfect body doesn’t fix all your problems, or make you love yourself more. To me, it’s all about being comfortable in your own skin. — America Ferrera
Since I’m not doing traditional portraits, I enjoy watching how subtle changes can alter an expression, and how a character evolves into something more than I originally pictured. That is exactly how Casey came to life as the newest subject for my Mini Figurative series.
Working on this piece in monochrome pastel, I wanted to capture his quiet, contemplative expression as it naturally emerged on the paper. I focused on using crisp white highlights and deep charcoal shadows to define the smooth contours of his muscular torso and the soft texture of his chest hair. By rendering his athletic, completely naked form against our solid, warm ochre background, the piece highlights a sense of natural confidence and ease within oneself.
