I began this 5.75 x 5.75" head study in oil with faint notations of structural measurement. I often aim to establish overall shadow shapes before exploring areas of light. However, in this instance I worked from the forehead down to lay in direct chromatic patches of light and dark shapes simultaneously. These color-values established a simplified, yet accurate representation of the model in the initial pass. By sharpening key edges and softening others, the form began to advance, recede and take shape. My model was an elegant and talented graduate school friend who resembled a Greek statue come to life. I was thrilled to have her pose for me.