On the fourth day of Interregnum the task I chose to do was a portrait of Natalia Envy

First thing I have to say, as artistic as I like to think myself, as skilled as I believe I am with paint and a brush, I have a lot to learn when it comes to portraits. I can make faces, but they don't always resemble their model.

In this case, I think there is a resemblance, but not as much as would really do justice to the beauty of this particular model. I do think I captured a certain quality, and I hope y'all will agree.

I chose this image from Ms. Envy's player portfolio because there's something about the stance that is so commanding, so forward, and the juxtaposition of that with the dainty, soft lace of the skirt and the full Victorian control of the whole ensemble. And, of course, topped by that hat (as many of you know, my son wears a similar chapeau, so they are near and dear to my heart).

I can imagine Ms. Envy in this outfit leading a rough and tumble group of men in the same way that Mina Hark.... um... I mean Murray does in League of Extraordinary Gentlemen.

Please excuse the quality of the photos. I'm having difficulty because I don't have adequate light in my room for proper photos, and my camera doesn't like photographing flat items that can reflect the flash. The photos with the more blue background are more true colorwise, while the other, more purple background I think shows the detail better.

Oh, and Natalia, you are welcome to the painting I did in your honor, if you would enjoy it. Let me know and we'll work out a transfer.