Although some artists may start painting with the idea of being a “portrait artist” it is more common that the artist painted figurative paintings and then moved towards portraits.

What is the difference between a figurative painting and a portrait painting? A portrait is technically a figurative painting but it is one where the purpose is to portray a specific person. They are usually commissioned by families or institutions. Figurative works are all the paintings that have people in them for the purpose of composition. Some are narrative as is the case with Norman Rockwell’s paintings. Others are painted with the artist’s vision in mind and are not confined by the desires of clients or art directors.

Figurative paintings are the most relatable paintings to viewers. We are attracted to pictures of people because that’s what we know best. My teacher once told me if you can’t find a focal point in your landscape put a person in it.

I have always enjoyed painting people and painting them in a non portrait context gives me great deal of artistic freedom. I most enjoy realist figure paintings, not “realist” as in photographic but in the sense of real people doing everyday things.