The Potters

79 x 106 cm, oil on board
A relaxed family portrait, where the subjects are formally dressed but the painting is informally staged. The composition involves a flattened triangle, coming to its peak with the father, but with all family members being given equal importance in the picture. The two daughters command attention, in part by the detailed pattern of their dresses, with the direction of their gaze leading the viewer back to the son on the far left of the group. The son, although in profile, is given status because he is the centre of the family’s attention, all eyes are on him. The son and the father both wear dark blue suits, standing either side of the mother and setting off the vivid orange of her dress. The intended atmosphere is one of engaging conversation on a relaxed, enjoyable family occasion. (Commissioned portrait, shown as part of the BP Portrait Award 2007)

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