SHIRLEY’S Batik on silk, 20”x 16” May 2020 I rarely do commissions for portraits unless I know the subject personally. Her daughter-in-law, Debbie, asked me to paint Shirley's portrait as a birthday gift to her husband, George. I have frequented several of the Shirley's restaurants over the years, enjoying her excellent shrimp fried rice among other delicious dishes for which she was well-known. I had met her a few times but didn't know her personally. Portraits are so subjective, I feel I have to know the person in order to portray a bit of their personality. Debbie shared many photos of Shirley and talked about her life and aspects of her personality that she felt were important. Through our conversations, I was impressed with the accomplishments of this woman. After making a few sketches based on photographs, Debbie agreed that I had captured her look and personality, so I proceeded with the painting. Debbie was thrilled with the result, and kin
