Happy

Location: Tibet
Size: 22 x 17"

We were on the East side of Everest, and trekking tourism was still a bit in its infancy. When we arrived at a very small village after crossing 17,700' Langma La in Tibet, our group was subject of great curiosity. I greeted this man in Tibetan, "Tashi Delek", a wish of blessing, good health and good luck. He responded with this wonderful warm smile, as he continued to finger his prayer beads. In the painting, I emphasized the harsh, high-altitude light, by leaving the pure white of the synthetic YUPO paper for the highlights. I used warm colors and a limited palette to emphasize both the light and his warm response, even using some warm purples to go beyond the monotone real-life plain greys and blacks of his clothing. Yupo always presents a particular challenge, as it has a mind of its own, creating a wonderful flow and mingling of colors in the voluminous folds of fabric.

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