Need an umbrella?

Superb watercolour, especially the face tones and expression.

A stunning portrait, Kim! I love the vitality of his face and eyes, which you have vividly captured, and the relaxed contented pose, which probably reflects the very happy state of his "early retirement". This has to rank as one of my favorites in your very illustrious gallery!

I need an umbrell. It's pouring where I am. Please do "inflict" more portraits on us. This one is superb.

A wonderful character to add to your portrait gallery. Brilliant - what else?!

Such a beautiful happy face this umbrella man of yours has Kim! His eyes are fantastic and the colour of the skin like warm chocolate. Great work!

Great portrait, you have succeeded in portraying so much character. I've often met "umbrella sellers" in Italy, where groups of refugees try to earn a small living in the carparks etc., and I always wonder about the life they have led in the past and what it must be like for them now, so far from home. With this portrait I feel you have given back this gentleman the respect he deserves, after all the hardships he has undoubtedly been through. Of course, I could be completely wrong, but that's what it says to me.

A fabulous water colour portrait. I love water colour. You have created such a powerful face.

Migrants are treated disgracefully here. Few rights, no integration, exploitation and more than a whiff of the kind of racism that was stamped out in the UK 40 years ago. On the other hand, the country is inundated with these poor souls seeking a better life, often reluctant to deal with officialdom for fear of being deported (indeed, this man was very reluctant to participate in my project, probably for that very reason). So you are spot on Sharon, and I appreciate your feedback enormously. The same goes for Shirley, Pat, Avie and my other friends. My only regret is that I have no name to add to the work.

Sorry I missed this one. Dark skin is so hard to paint successfully but you have chosen exactly the right mix to show the wonderful gloss and hidden tones. Love the slightly amused and quizzical look on the umbrella seller (did you buy one??). An accomplished portrait and I look forward to seeing all the others.