What an incredible weekend!
Over 700 Portrait Artists gathered at the Grand Hyatt Buckhead in Atlanta for The 17th Annual The Art of the Portrait Conference hosted by the Portrait Society of America!
This was my second year to attend, and I have to say I once again walked away inspired to create! I told a friend if they had painting stations set up in the hallway to rent during the breaks they could make a killing! I feel like all the artists walked out of each session itching to try their hand at some new technique!
The weekend began with a Face-off featuring 15 artists demonstrating simultaneously. The room works in a circle with the demonstrating artist in the middle, while the crowd walks around the outside. It was absolutely fascinating to see how differently each artist started the painting and worked throughout the evening.
One of my favorite parts of the weekend is the 6×9 Mystery Art Sale. During a crazed 15 minutes the audience is allowed to survey the 127 works of art – without knowing who any of the artist are! You are then allowed to bid on pieces, and only after the artwork is purchased is the artist name revealed! All proceeds benefit the Portrait Society’s scholarship programs. What a fun and unique fundraiser!
Saturday morning’s program gave us the unique privilege of listening to Everett Raymond Kinstler & Richard Ormond, grandnephew of John Singer Sargent!
“Watercolor is making the best of an emergency.” – John Singer Sargent.
Loved hanging out with some of my favorite fellow artist, as well as meeting new friends from all over the world!
Coinciding with the Conference there was an International Portrait Competition. If you care to see the finalist follow this link to see their inspiring artwork!
The Portrait Society of America 2015 International Portrait Competition
“Paint what uniquely inspires you.” – Jeff Hein