Prep drawings for commissioned work

Working with a couple from Virginia on a large commissioned piece of a scene, and a place, that is a special place in their lives–past and present. It is always an exciting challenge to develop a piece that is both the representation I bring to scenes I encounter, while putting into the place the aspect of “place” that is special to the commissioner.

After several charcoal studies–all of which could be compositions with the potential to merit being turned into a painting–I chose the charcoal above, as it contained the aspects of the scene that initially struck me (and the couple I’m working with). This charcoal, and the pastel color study below, will be reviewed and discussed (against the 4 other compositions provided) to determine the direction for the final oil.