The Big Heads portrait series focuses on capturing a moment in time for any particular subject. As I work with the model, I want them to feel as if they are in mid-conversation with me, but have become momentarily distracted by something *just* out of the corner of their eye. The more their focus shifts to some random spot on the wall, the more their imagination then takes over. A relaxed concentration takes over, and their face conveys an appearance of daydream wonder. It is this moment I try to capture on canvas.

The settings are sparse, with the face conveying the bulk of the story. In the end, I hope the viewer brings their own interpretation to each painting, creating a new and unique story each time the work is viewed.

Catherine was the first model I worked with during the 2012 painting sessions. As it turns out, there was a slight miscommunication when she arrived for class. She had assumed it was a nude pose for a figure painting. She didn’t realize it was a portrait pose, and didn’t bring anything specific to wear. As it turns out, she was wearing a pretty amazing distressed Wonder Woman t-shirt as her street clothes, and this was the perfect element to add a bit of rock and roll to the piece.

"Catherine" (Underpainting)

Catherine
Acrylic on canvas,
20 x 30 inches,
Painted 2012 by Matt Cauley