Lochlan 7th by Rob Browning
Finding an artists online, in a gallery or simply by chance through fellow artists social media is an adventure in itself. Two years ago I ran across one of Rob Brownings pieces in a group show and fell in love. I love her ability to cast light in a unique direction and how gives his subjects a surrealism look. One thing that is a challenge for many is letting the artist keep with their aesthetic. When we started commissioning these portraits of the kids, I was not totally up front of our expectations. While man artists are prone to keep with the world or look of their subjects, I think some artists are afraid to experiment, that way they don’t have an unhappy client. I think it was after Paley’s 4th portrait, is when I realized, I needed to be more vocal about my expectations of the artist. Even then that has evolved over the years.
Today, before a single sketch is done, I always tell the artist, “I don’t expect your piece to show my kid in a realistic manner. I choose you to commission this piece based on your collective style or your work. I want the piece to be your interpretation of my child. I would like to keep with your aesthetic and be happy with the piece and can easily be apart of show you would do for your work. Since adopting this vocal narrative, almost all of the artists adhere to their visions.
Rob Browning is a perfect example with his 7 year portrait of Lochlan. Rob did a series of paintings where the subjects were partially lit by the sun and a building structure casts a shadow on them at the same time. When I sat with Lochlan to pick out painting that Rob had done as inspiration for his portrait, he was drawn to the same paintings. Working with Rob went by so fast. Early in the process you can really see how the piece begins to evolve.
Working Rob was quick and smooth. It was one of the faster commission we have ever had done. Until, Paley’s 12th which is coming very soon to the blog. Lochlan loved it from the early sketch to the day we finally opened the package when it arrived. I am super excited to put this piece up once we finish the house remodel. I am hoping to get it to the framers once we finally are released from shelter in place hell almost the who world is under.