Beached Boats, by Mike....
mixing the colors...
the master at work...
finishing touches...
Part of my recent four day stay in Massachusetts was to help my Grandson Mike with his Spanish homework. Now don't get me wrong I don't speak the language but I could certainly help him with the art project side of his homework. The assignment was to copy a painting of Joaquin Sorolla, a Spanish Impressionist! I may have studied him over 40 years ago but his name did not ring a bell! Mike looked through his work and decided on the boats, titled "Beached Boats" and printed it out.
After a trip to the art store we were ready! I'm pretty sure I was more excited than he was! "I hate to paint Grandma," he proclaimed! That word "hate" usually translates into fear of the unknown. Don't you think?
Deep breath Grandma, one step at a time. With very little instruction and a few helpful hints, Mike ran with it. We were all amazed, as drawing is really his thing, he is in advanced art classes in school. He added a few extra touches and made it his own. He took his project to school the next morning, two weeks early. A very quiet young man, I know he was proud of it! His teacher was amazed and said she might have to keep it! Mike's comment, "you will have to fight my mom for it!" I'm hoping he paints a lot more and just maybe this summer while up north, I will just have to paint with him!
I am so darn proud of this kind and gentle soul. I love him so!!!
A special Thank You, to his Spanish teacher who has expanded his horizons, certainly boosting his confidence! Great job!
And for myself, just so honored that he asked! What else are grandmothers for????
"Joaquin Sorolla y Bastida (February 27, 1863 - August 10, 1923) was a Spanish painter, born in Valencia, who excelled in the painting of portraits, landscapes, and monumental works of social and historical themes. His most typical works are characterized by a dexterous representation of the people and landscape under the sunlight of his native land."~google search~
