Entry into The Lester Prize 2024
'Shine on, Mr Pericles' Oil on Linen 61cm x 76cm © 2024 Tanya Cole
Portrait Description: "Leon Pericles is a truly remarkable and iconic Western Australian fine artist & master printmaker. I first saw Leon's work when I lived in Broome. Now living in the South West, I describe Leon as 'Art Royalty' in the artists circles down here. He is incredibly generous with his time and endlessly supportive of other artists. I wanted to honour him, his work, his journey as artist and just the lovely humble creative man that he is. My intention in painting Leon's portrait was to capture his creative soul, his empathy and wonderful sense of humour. Shine on, Mr Pericles."
In the process of rendering the portrait, I loved being able to take time to slowly develop the piece using classical portrait painting techniques, building structure through implementation of an underpainting, layering with oil/glazes a little bit at a time, chiaoscuro techniques, painting into the darks... which was challenging but very rewarding.
I am super grateful to Leon for giving me the opportunity to paint his portrait. I loved every minute of creating it! Deepest thanks Leon.
*Photographer Credit for photo reference ~ huge thanks to Lauren Trickett Photography for her kind permission to reference her fabulous photo of Leon.
** Big thanks also to Nathan of Veracity Art Reproduction for his wonderful capture of my painting
I am super grateful to Leon for giving me the opportunity to paint his portrait. I loved every minute of creating it! Deepest thanks Leon.
*Photographer Credit for photo reference ~ huge thanks to Lauren Trickett Photography for her kind permission to reference her fabulous photo of Leon.
** Big thanks also to Nathan of Veracity Art Reproduction for his wonderful capture of my painting