Corporal Andrew James Eykelenboom Initial Drawing in Oil, 14 x 18

This is my initial drawing of Corporal Andrew James Eykelenboom. Andrew’s mother, Maureen, gave us the copyright to this photo to paint from when I met with her in Comox, B.C. in June. It was wonderful to get to know Andrew through his mother’s stories and photos of his life. We both liked liked this photo the best; it displays his wonderful smile; his love of fun, family and friends.

I started with a quick free-hand drawing done in yellow ochre paint directly onto a high quality, acrylic primed and stretched canvas. Once this drawing has been checked, measured, and is satisfactory, I’ll start painting the portrait in many layers, using Walnut Alkyd Medium to ‘wet in’ the painting each time I start another layer. The walnut oil medium helps me blend the oil colors, and since it dries overnight I can work on it every day until it is finished.

Shairl