MEDUSA

Based upon the Greek mythological character, Medusa is an acrylic on canvas rich in deep shadows providing a three dimensional feel and a gaze that is almost unavoidable.  The single eye uncovered by the medley of emerald snakes emanating from her head, originally was expected to be completely reflective without definition to the eyeball itself, but instead painted with a metallic paint.  This was but one of a number of changes that occurred by the time the pice was completed.  This began as a little boy holding air in his cheeks, in a Dizzy Gillespie type fashion with a very fair-shinned color.  Eventually this evolved into a more olive complected little boy with a smile before moving into the look of a black woman.  Ironically, I couldn't find anyone willing to model for me, so I built the face off of my reflection and a collection of black women's faces off of the internet.