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Foxtrot


Old fashioned 

Painting this one was a valuable learning experience. I realize now that it was quite silly of me to try and paint people from fantasy again, without a real reference.

Although I was content with the man's pose (Paul posed for me for the man's figure), I had to repaint that woman's head multiple times - at least three, I believe. Initially, she was blond and innocent, which made the whole scene obnoxiously sweet. Then, she became a drama queen, but that version lacked joy in her dance. In the end, I feel I finally achieved the neutral expression I was aiming for. Just dancing, that's it. The viewer may decide for themselves what's in her head. What emotion do you see? Is there any? Perhaps there is. But for me, my focus was again especially on hands. 

I only hope she and the whole painting didn't end up too sentimental, too sweet. That I would hate.

And regarding the dance itself, I'd like it to be a foxtrot. The slow one. Deliciously old-fashioned and just beautiful. Have you ever tried dancing the foxtrot? You really should!

This is another one in the series Hands' Private Life. Let's call it "Foxtrot". 

Oil on canvas 40 x 50 cm, alla prima, limited palette.

View the finished painting in my gallery.
Exhibitions:
- Driedaagse Expo at Het Stalhuus. June 2025, Hollum
- "Enjoy" Group Exhibition. February to April 2026, Galerie Kakelbont, Paterswolde



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