Here is a pastel sketch of a portrait that is simple in its composition and hopefully engaging in its impact on the viewer. The subject is a beautiful and troubled young woman, who like so many of her contemporaries struggles with her own self image and sadly her self worth. Yet, despite these issues 'Nicola' has a serenity that comes across when you catch her unawares. I want to show in this portrait a beauty that the subjects own self image denies her seeing. I want in some small way to show her that no matter how cruel and hateful the remarks made at her expense can sound, those who love her can see the genuine beauty she possesses.
