We often commemorate our lives and times with photographs, video tapes or other modern recording devices. The latest technology has given us many ways to preserve the special times and occasions.  The birth of a child, special milestones in our lives, graduations and marriages are just a few of life's highlights that all of us would like to have immortalized for our selves and posterity. Sadly, at times we must say a final goodbye to loved ones, family members, close friends and our beloved pets. Photographs and videos and other images can help keep their memory alive and maintain a sense of closeness.

    While the modern recording methods are great for the chronological documenting of our lives, a portrait says this person on this occasion is special and demands a special presentation. One of the oldest and still most valued form of preserving that special image in a formal portrait. That is why I chose this portrait of my mother to illustrate the depth feeling and expression that can be achieved in a pencil portrait. I have drawn several pieces for my mother over the years, her first house, a perfect rose and many others but this portrait is my favorite. It was truly a labor of love. I still get a kick out of it when ever I go over for a visit. I had it professionally matted and framed and I must admit I do enjoy it as much as she does.

    Pencil portraits are not limited to black and white( graphite) sketches. I also render portraits in colored pencil, pastels, conti crayons and just about any dry media but I find that most people who commission a portrait like the old world look of the pencil portrait. In this world of digital photography, both video and still, is now so ubiquitous and easy to produce the hand drawn or painted portrait stand out and says to all that this is different from the mass produced image and is, in that sense, a very special presentation.

    My gallery of portraits is just a mouse click away. I hope that you enjoy browsing the various categories and I look forward to helping you create that special portrait of that special person, pet, home or other memorable occasion in your life.