Monday, February 14, 2011

Joyful hero on Valentine's Day

transparent watercolor, 2.5"x3.5"

Ever meet someone that you instantly like? I met this fellow while visiting Hana Fresh on Maui and if you see him, you will know what I mean. He's the easy-going, soft-spoken guy that smiles a lot and exudes joyfulness. You see, Sam is with a non-profit group that helps to feed his rural community healthful foods through their vast organic garden. He spends his day in the sun and knows what hard work is. If you're ever driving through Hana, please visit their Farmer's Market and support a great cause. So in honor of Valentine's Day, I'd like to honor Sam, a man whose love for his community challenges him to do great things.

I felt it very appropriate to paint Sam for my Everyday Matters Challengs #254: Something that represents joy. :) I love when we get to meet our heroes. I hope this watercolor does him justice.

15 comments:

Sharon Wagner said...

We named our cats Hana and Akua. Hana for our magical time in Hana, Maui. And Akua for our time spent at Inn Paradise on Kauai. So obviously I know why the man in your portrait looks so happy!

Elza said...

You captured the joy and benevolence so very well.

Barbara B said...

He sure looks like someone you'd want to get to know. Lovely sketch.

Alex said...

Awesome portrait! And your drawing really brought out the sunshine feature of him and it shows his true personality well. =) Great background as well, Happy Valentine's day!

hazel ang said...

This is really beautifully rendered!

Cathy Holtom said...

You captured his character very well!

Grobi White said...

I love the expression in his eyes!

Elena (Pelusa) said...

He has so nice eyes! Looks benevolent and happy, but with that happiness learn from pure life...
Lovely!

Teri said...

You did a beautiful job on him. I want to go back to Maui again because I never made it to Hana and look what I missed.

Have fun with you 'purse sketchbook' :)

suzanne cabrera said...

Oh Joan..this is so sweet. And Sam's eyes are a perfect reflection of joy. Such a nice job!

I've missed stopping by!!!

Unknown said...

I love your choice of subject for the challenge! And it is a wonderful portrait!

nanke's stuff said...

What a handsome man! You did a beautiful job with this painting. nancy

Joan Y said...

Thanks so much everyone. This one comes from the heart. :) <3

wagonized said...

You've been so prolific, Joan! You've captured a really lively personality, a glint in his eyes... with color! What a tribute to joy.

Joan Y said...

Thanks France. I am trying to get over my fear of drawing people ... something you do better than anyone I know so I hope you know you're my inspiration. :)