I Can't Get This One Straight

Before I explain the title of this post, I should warn you that in my family, all roads lead to poopy jokes.  That said, I'll continue. 

When my niece was five years old, my mom and I picked her up after school everyday.  One day when we were in a small bookstore, she felt the urge.  If you've ever dealt with a five year old who needs to go, you'll know they don't care where they are or who's around.  They have to go.  So, this bookstore had a tiny bathroom with ply-wood walls in the middle of the store.  She was in there for a while, making all kinds of noises which could be heard by all in the store.  I asked if she was okay, and she grunted, "I... can't... get... this one... STRAIGHT!"  I about died laughing.  It's been a standing joke in our house ever since.  When we have a problem getting something to come out right, we quote my niece.

Now, for the reason behind the poopy story.  I can't get this painting straight.  I've been working on it for days.  I've redone Grayson's face three times, and I'm happy with most of it now.  I've only done Grant's face twice, and it still needs something.  I'm going to stare it down for a couple more days and see if I can figure out where it's wrong.  I thought it was only fair to share the main reason you haven't been hearing from me this week.  I've been a woman obsessed.  Be kind in your criticisms, and I'll eventually share the finished piece!

Comments

[Chris in Oxford]

If I had any kind of painting skills, I'd love to give you some advice. All I can say is that I think it's an issue of perspective...

Great story, by the way. Oh, and when I loaded your site the middle panel was blank, I had to click on the link in recent posts - maybe something else to get straight?

[Chris in Oxford]

Never mind the last comment. Works fine now...

[Jessica Keith]

I know what it is now. It's Grant's chin and left jaw and Grayson's top lip. And knowing is half the battle...

[Jessica Keith]

and Grant's right eye and cheekbone...

[foolery]

You have such a flair for capturing FEELING, Jessie. I had a hard time with that.

I think the eyes/brow area are on the right "tipping back" axis, but the nose/mouth/chin are seem to be on a "tipping forward" axis. I don't know how to say that. Does that help?

You will so treasure these all your life -- and so will they.

[arizaphale]

Right eye and cheekbone....sometimes it helps to get a bit further away from the subject (like putting on the screen) to get a different perspective. Love the emotion in Grayson's grin...that works really well. It's a great honour being privy to these unfinished works.

[arizaphale]

er... I meant...I agree with you on the right eye and cheekbone...just read the comment back and it was a bit confusing.