Ground Control to Major Sam

Ground Control to Major Sam

12 x 24

Oil on Raymar Panel

$1000.

A few months ago I was fortunate to be able to travel to Japan to visit a dear friend and fabulous artist Carrie Roets Waller.  Carrie was kind enough to show me and my traveling buddy, Debra Keirce who is also a fabulous artist, around Japan...finding the ins and outs...sales...sights...and navigating the public transportation system.  It was a wonderful trip.  As an added bonus we enjoyed the company of Carrie's most hospitable family.  While we were there her youngest son, Sam, got a costume in the mail.  I took a gazillion pictures of Japan so, of course, my camera was handy.  I asked Sam if he would pose for me and he stood proudly showing his new space suit.  Then he took off his helmet and held it under his arm and said that this is the way the astronauts do it.  Needless to say I was thrilled with my model and could not resist painting this piece.  The recent death of David Bowie reminded me of his song which, if course is the basis for the title. 

Maria Bennett Hock - Self portrait

Maria February 2016

11 x 14

Oil on Raymar Panel

When I am between projects I usually paint a self portrait.  I do it because I am the model that is most available to me any time I need one, it is good practice, and it gives me time to think about my next project.  As I am just finishing a large double portrait that has been very time consuming and am getting ready to start another series I decided a self portrait was in order.  So today I set about trying to find my likeness once again.  When I post my self portraits, as I often do on FB (though I don't post all of them ) I am met with specific criticisms.  I am often told I don't look like what I portray.   Of course a good critique is always welcome.  :)  My only response is that I paint what I see...what I feel and what my abilities allow me to paint.  I am doing the best I can.  With that said...here is my latest self portrait.  

Brotherly Love

Brotherly Love

16 x 20

Oil on Raymar Panel

This is painting of My son, Jason, currently serving in the United States Air Force and his two sons.  Jayden is the older brother and Riley the younger.  It was such a precious moment captured in a split second on film.  I have painted these three numerous times and I am sure they will be the subject of many paintings to come.  

What I really loved about this composition is the differences in the body types and gestures.  The adult in the background is leaning forward and holding up the youngest child while the older brother leans forward to give a quick kiss on the forehead.