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.

Mike was a model I had worked with at the School of Visual Arts while taking John Parks’ Portraiture class. It was another lighting experiment, and while I had initially brushed in the jacket, it proved to be too hot for the poor guy. He ended up having to go shirtless for the rest of the sessions, and even then he was sweating buckets. I really felt bad for the guy, but he was a complete professional with his dedication to the pose.

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

Mike (Underpainting)