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.

Derek was a model I had worked with at the School of Visual Arts while taking John Parks’ Portraiture class. It was near Halloween at the time, and John wanted to have some fun with a bit of dramatic lighting. Even though Derek looks fairly intense in this image, he was one of the nicest guys I’ve worked with.

Derek
Acrylic on canvas,
20 x 30 inches,
Painted 2008 by Matt Cauley