The Least of These

This is a painting of a young woman who is homeless. She was playing guitar for tips. It appears she probably was a veteran because of her camouflage jacket lying on the side. I have great respect and admiration for those who have served our country. I wanted to tell her story in some small way. I painted this with pastels because of the color opportunities pastels afford. They are intense. At the same time, it allows for subtle shades of gray. I wanted to record the intense color of her backpack and red shirt against the gritty and dirty colors of the street. She appears to be physically strong at a time when her life is vulnerable. Degas and Manet are influences and inspiration for my pastels