Portrait of a Girl

Another of my portraits depicting children, also a commission.  The girl was a bit nervous, in particular not quite sure what to do with her hands.  After observing her for a while, I asked her whether we could go and pick some flowers, and suggested they be arranged in her arms.  She gave me a little smile, and then I saw how to proceed.  The landscape, I should add, reflects her German heritage.

Years later, I received a call from her—she had seen my work on social media and wanted me to know that she had inherited the painting, and was so glad to have the work in her possession, not only  because she liked it, but also as it reminded her of a happy childhood.

Oil on canvas