I set myself a project for Christmas 2025, to draw 7 portraits in 7 days. One of the subjects was my friend's father and I completely screwed it up. It was slanted and off balance and I couldn't get it sorted out no matter how hard I tried. He ended up looking very strange. I knew I could do better, so once my challenge was over I did redo it. With proper time and focus the second attempt came out perfectly but it was a good lesson in what happens when concentration lapses and I loose flow. Oh - and maybe trying to do two faces on one day was a bit ambitious!

@Gina DeMarco lovely! They are all so different! I especially like the first one, it's very delicate and classic looking. Brilliant work!

@Kathryn Smith don't be shy! My goodness these are amazing! They've got such a tremendous gothic vibe, I love them. Be proud of your work, it's so stylish! Really really good 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

I did a self portrait last year. It took a moment for it to become "just another face" but once that happened it was fun. I love portraits, they're my favourite subject. It's always challenging but ultimately satisfying to capture the life in the face.

@Heleen Ligtelijn hi Helen - these are terrific! Such interesting styles. The first one especially looks like a 1960's movie star 😍

@Sabine Devlin thank you, I'm glad you like it. The little flock of seagulls was my favourite bit to do.

@Kathryn Smith lovely sketch - might it turn in to prep for a more lengthy work? Such nice composition.......

I believe paintings have a life of their own - and sometimes we artists visit at the wrong time. But my goodness when you turn up at the right time for it to flow through and "become" isn't it a thrill?!?! Well done on being brave enough to take decisive action - and YES you deserve a glass of wine ☺️