A Personal Project -- Reflecting on Mom
It was Mother's Day in May of 2020, during the worldwide pandemic when so many of us were apart from family members. I began to think about my mother, who left this world far too soon, now having been gone for over 30 years. To honor her memory during the week of Mother's Day, I was compelled create a painted portrait of her.
1970's Family Photo
Digging through old family photos, I particularly loved this classic black & white family photo of all of us in the 1970's in our living room. Her expression, eyes, and smile were all ideal to be used as the source photograph of a painted portrait.
original family reference photograph (yes, that's me on the end!)
Transforming a Classic
Working from a black and white photograph was a keenly creative challenge for me. The first step was to hand-tint the photograph before it could be used as a reference image. I'm so excited how I was able to transform an old photograph and bring it back to life with color and hand-rendered brushwork to elevate it into a meaningful work of art. As a result, I am now able to create beautiful art from my clients' old family photos as well!
blocking in the composition
finishing details with applied oils
A Daily Reminder
This portrait of my mom is now displayed in the studio as a constant reminder of how she always wanted me to follow my bliss and pursue my natural gifts in the fine arts. While she was not around at the time I launched my studio, I hope she is watching me now and proud to know I followed my creative dreams.
Video: The Making of the Painting
Watch this video of my mother being remembered with a painting from a black & white family portrait.
Who would you like to remember?
Perhaps there is someone in your life that you would like to commemorate with a portrait painting.
Only 5 commissions are accepted a month. Will yours be one of them?
➡️ Contact Bobbie to learn more
Bobbie Bush is a Massachusetts-based portrait artist creating custom portrait painting commissions to honor, celebrate and commemorate loved ones. Serving nationally. Since 1996.