AMY by Ruth Dolan

Background is ok, looks like shadows. Nice painting.

Thank you, Carol. It's the first time I had attempted anything like this, and I found it a real challenge.

I think you have done really well with this one, Ruth. Just a little thing - I think the proportions of the baby's face are not quite there - can't quite put my finger on what is bothering me. Perhaps the eyebrows - could need playing down a bit - I don't know. However, it is a lovely image and very nicely painted. Keep going with portraits as I think you have what it takes.

Thank you, Thea, for your helpful comments; you have restored my confidence somewhat. I shall certainly try some more portrait type work. I did have quite a few tries with the baby's face - the brows don't really say 'baby', do they, and you are quite right about them, I think. Yes, I will keep going, practice can often do wonders! The trouble is that I tend to go back to my comfort zone, which is OK, but doesn't move you on.

This is my other favorite, Ruth. Such a lovely depiction of the mother-child bond. It's gorgeous.