Contemporary Portraits

Portraits featuring the artistic style of collage, bright color and mixed media techniques unique to the artwork of Gail Rubinfeld. Gail uses these applications to capture the spirit and personality of the subject, while maintaining a realistic likeness of the person.

"The Bride" 30x24 mixed media, collage  and acrylic

"Finally Estee" 30x24 mixed media, collage and acrylic

"Founding Father" 30x24 Mixed media, collage and acrylic

"Happy Birthday, Gilad" 30x24 Acrylic

"Tribute to Arnie Lawrence" 36x30 Acrylic

"Harold Winer, Teacher, Mentor" 24x18 mixed media, collage and acyrlic

Anatomy of a Portrait

The steps in the process of creating a portrait titled "Gilly".

The original photograph used for the portrait painting.

Below is the first steps of the portrait by blocking out the proportions of the figure and background and adding initial color to the skin.

The facial features are defined and the upper torso shadowing is added.

The figure is refined with the clothing added.

The background is created with pale color and tone.

The final portrait is completed with background detail and lightening.

Contemporary Portraits

My interest in portraits began with oils, and has since been translated into many other mediums, including pastel, mixed media, acrylics, and printmaking. The human form and face create a spiritual connection between the blank canvas or paper and the subject. Starting with a quick sketch or line, the person emerges from the emptiness to fill the painting with energy and spirit. This is always an exciting and religious artistic connection that is unique to portraiture.

"The Bridal Bouquet" 36x36 Mixed Media

"The Beatles" 18x36 Acrylic

"Portrait of Noya" 14x11 monotype