As an artist I like to keep up with Artists and Illustrator on Facebook and spotted an article about the new portrait commissioned of Kate, Duchess of Cambridge. It has had a mixed reception. Most commentaters on Facebook disliked it, saying it made the Duchess look older than her 31 years. The art critic for the Sunday Times called it "disappointing" and for the Daily Mail said it was "a rotten portrait".
The Artist, Paul Elmsley, is noted for his portraits such as his drawing of Nelson Mandela. He has won numerous awards and is undoubtedly extremely skilled. It is a tough gig however to capture the likeness of someone who has become photographed so often in a way that will please the majority.My own personal feelings are that she does look in her forties in this depiction. I would also have preferred that the true colour of her eyes was depicted. The worst thing for me however, is the smile that does not reach the eyes and thus appears as a smirk. Not very endearing.
What are your thoughts on the first official portrait of the future British Queen?
I do agree, but then she has said she likes it so who am I to disagree
ReplyDeleteShe is indeed reported as saying she likes it. I am glad she does :)
DeleteI didn't notice the smirk until you pointed it out. You're right; it looks like she's smirking.
ReplyDeleteI don't think looking like you're in your forties is necessarily a bad thing. I wish our society enjoyed all ages instead of just glorifying the young.
I totally agree that we should not glorify youth. Beauty shines through at any age, shape or size. For me, Kate does not shine here where she does in real life :)
ReplyDeleteHey, Janice, just stopping by--this is so interesting. I think it's a beautiful painting (if kind of tight), but not very flattering--I agree about the mouth and the age. And there's nothing wrong with being in your forties--if you ARE! (and she isn't!)
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by and commenting Carol. Totally agree :)
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