I prefer working directly with my subjects, whether a landscape, still life, or portrait. There's an energy, urgency, and spontaneity that becomes infused into paintings done in this alla-prima (all at once) manner that happens less so when working with photography as reference. My goal in portraiture is to capture the likeness, mood, and personality of the subject. Here, cool studio lighting illuminates the model's flesh as her hair and attire melt into the background's darkness as her mind drifts deep in thought. "Studio Light" 12x9 inches acrylic on canvas panel.