This is a painting of Annemarie, who has brought out the best in me at many moments in life. The Van Gogh paint case I received for my birthday in 2014 was the planted seed that would grow into more than just a hobby. She already thought I would enjoy it, but she never pushed me to use that paint box. Patience is a virtue.
Annemarie has many layers, and so does this painting. I kept track and counted around 9 to 10 layers, applied on consecutive days. The golden-yellow dress was initially blue, but it gave a much too cool appearance. The blue underlayer still shines through the yellow and adds depth to the painting. That is how layering works.
Painting your own family is a challenge, because every deviation is recognized immediately. When it works, it is extra rewarding. About 50 working hours went into this painting of roughly 50x60 cm. They flew by. The muscle behind my shoulder blade disagreed. I did not realize it came from painting in the wrong posture, but it can hurt a lot. Painting is relaxation, and that includes a relaxed body posture.
