Thursday, February 14, 2008

Mr. Ralph McSwain


A large portrait of Dan's Grandfather. I asked him if I could paint his picture today and told him I'd take a photograph of him so that he wouldn't have to be bored stiff while I painted him. I included the round breakfast table in the portrait. He looks a little sad here, but that's to be expected because he just lost his wife of 71 years. I may darken the background a little later. Large stretched canvas size 24" x 30" oil paint.

3 comments:

Jennifer said...

It's a good likeness, judging from the photo below. I enjoy the quail, too. Grandpa's eyes sure do sparkle through the sadness, don't they?

I remember when my grandmother passed, and grandpa was so sad he didn't know what to do, so we just got him to talk about his memories of their better years together -- her beautiful laugh, and how she loved to go dancing, and her gorgeous legs. He came around pretty well.

My mom said she just finished an excellent book on grieving (her husband died in June) recommended by her doctor. I had read one, too, so I could be more understanding of what she's going through. If you like to read and think the topic might help you understand Grandpa, I'd be glad to look for the titles for you.

It's a beautiful thing you're doing, Debi.

misskriss28 said...

Hi Debi,

My maiden name is McSwain, so sometimes I look up McSwains on the internet. I like to paint too, but I'm not near as good as you are.
My dad passed away last year, he was 1 month away from being 80. He and my mom had been married for 51 years. It is terribly hard to lose someone after being with them for so many years. I go to TX and bring her home with me to MS every couple of months or so.
I commend you for taking the time and having the patience to take care of your husband's Grandpa. It's a good thing your doing.

Unknown said...

Thank you misskriss28. Where are your McSwain family members from? My husband's family consists of people originally from Scotland. They settled in Kentucky and Ohio. Do you post your art anywhere?
Debi