Before I start my oil portraits on the big canvases, I do preparatory work on small print outs. After I play around a bit with the image, I mount it to a 16″ x 20″ canvas and load it with cryptic writings and random sketches which hold meaning for me, but seem nonsensical to the viewer. My goal with studies as such is to form a binding connection between myself and the subject before I create a final piece.

Syd