A good portrait is always so much more than an exact likeness. A good portrait should tell the story of the subject - who they are, where they've been... the nature of their choices and challenges.

Titled 'Charlie', this 18" x 24" oil painting features a man with a character filled face, a wistful look in his eyes, and an armful of tattoos from military service during the Korean war....but all that is just the beginning of the story. This portrait is also carefully crafted to be rich with symbolism; I painted ivy to represent the responsibilities and entanglements that grow over time. The window is placed on the same side the subject is looking - this obviously means reflection.The wood that he leans on represents the cross that we all must bear. And finally, I posed the subject with only his right arm visible - the symbolism here is intended to suggest righteousness, or doing what's right.

I am always on the lookout for new and interesting portrait commissons, so contact me today and let's get started on your masterpiece....the work of art that is....you.

-Charles Clifford Clear III