Calliope - Muse of Epic Poetry; a self portrait - Detail 1

This work, a self portrait entitled “Calliope – Muse of Epic Poetry” proved especially challenging and required considerable research of styles, techniques, and the collating of references of elements in the final portrait. Rather than enjoying the luxury of painting from a single reference (whether live or photo), the portrait was gradually built up from well over two dozen references including numerous photos of herself, frequent study in the mirror, numerous drapery samples, images from books and magazines showing detail of furniture, clothing, and flowers, as well as countless images to reference how classical artists had approached similar subject matter. What Antonia quite enjoys about this method, apart from the challenge, is that the final work slowly evolves – she never quite knows how the final work will look until it is finished. Interestingly, in this case, the work has not taken on the dull sombre tones of many Reynolds and Sargent works, but (according to her artist friends) has very aptly and effectively captured her own personality.

2011
Oil on Canvas over board
60 x 80 cm (24x32 inches approx)