Another piece that I am particularly proud of, both from an executional and provocative perspective. This is, of course, my “take” on a famous work by Johannes Vermeer, similarly titled “Girl with a Pearl Earring” which you can see below. I have always thought this was a masterful portrait, and it is one that is frequently studied by aspiring artists.

I wanted to do something a little different with it, to give it a subtle change that might not be immediately obvious to the casual view. The title is an obvious give-away, but honestly when does anyone look at those?

I worked on this particular piece outside while working at the PAPA gallery one day. I greatly enjoyed pointing out the small detail to passers-by, which was met with reactions ranging from an “oh, that’s brilliant” from a fellow lover of sarcasm to a shaking head in disapproval by a purist. And to be clear, I enjoy and welcome both such reactions.

What many may not realize about Vermeer’s original piece is that it was considered controversial at the time, due to the slightly parted lips of the model, a detail that today would be hardly noticed. I like that the movement of the jewelry follows that trend in a way, and hope I was able to bring this “girl” into the 21st Century.