Curls

My portrait, Curls, represents an empowered woman with a mysterious side. I am a firm believer that women can be just as empowered and confident as men can be and in this portrait I was inspired to express that passion. The large, cowboy-style hat is meant to give her a mysterious vibe, because it covers her left eye and casts a dark shadow across her face and luxurious curls. Her sharp features show that she is not soft, but rather serious and assertive. The curls are bright and bold and give a nice contrast with the shadows to make her appear more mysterious. The lips are plump and round, to give her an alluring intimacy. I used oil pastel for this portrait because the contrast between dark and light is enhanced and I wanted that effect to take over the majority of the piece.