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| Collage portraits |
Portraits of all
especially :a pictorial representation of a person usually showing the face
I am not certain when my interest in portrait studies officially began. But I will say this, the earliest example of a head portrait, was in the eighth grade. Art class was offered to some of the students during our senior year. Most of the kids didn't like our class, therefore, treated Art class, like our lunch break. Most of them were disrespectful towards the teacher. They will sit and talk and groups disregarding what he was trying to teach for that period. I wish I could remember what he said exactly that triggered my interests. Perhaps it was the whole process of art. The idea that you can take something from your mind, and produce into a drawing, was mine blowing to me. And secretly this was something I have tried to do since the age of five. Also, this art teacher introduced the process of taking what you see in front of you and translated to paper. This sparked my interest even more. And I couldn't wait to get started.
It's funny, the same children that were disrespectful to him during his lessons, suddenly realize they needed to pass the quizzes to get a good grade. There's nothing worse than answering to your parents why you failed art, so sad so sad! Anyway, these kids realized I knew what I was doing because I actually paid attention to what he said. The same kids that wouldn't give me the time a day began to surround my table asking me for favors, wink wink. Oh yo! Can you draw that for me? This was my opportunity. I could say yes and be accepted by the cool kids. If anyone knows me, you can image my response was? Nope, I said. As they said f*** you Fatso! As they left my table, I responded back at them f*** You Idiots as my portrait was selected to be displayed for first place prize in the art exhibit. Before I graduated from high school, I received certificates for the Dean's list as well as certificates of achievement from art. Thanks to this art teacher that recognized my potential, and ever since, portraits have been my passion!
Roberto Clemente high school in the South Bronx. Mr. S. Berkowitz,
thank you 😃
Never underestimate the underdog!
