My “Helga” & Take it outside
Katrina Willis, Take it outside, 2008.
Pastel on toned paper, 12 x 9 inches. © The Artist
http://www.katrinawillis.com
Andrew Wyeth is one of the artists that I tend to study regularly. Here is one of my favorite stories about him. At one point, he told his wife that he wanted to paint a neighborhood girl (in the nude) and her response went something like: “Next time, just do it and don’t tell me about it.” (Whoa!) Consequently, Wyeth found a lady by the name of “Helga” that he wanted to paint. He loved her modeling endurance and her willingness to try new poses for compositions. She apparently had skills “that most American girls did not possess.” So he painted her repeatedly.
I think it’s fair to say that Mark is my “Helga.” He’s always around. He usually stays still at some point in the day, making him the perfect model. So, if any of you are dedicated collectors and want a series of one-of-a-kind drawings— keep your eyes on the “Mark” pictures! :)