A Grandfather and His Granddaughter

A Grandfather and His Granddaughter

16x24, oil on linen mounted to ACM panel

As an artist, there are few greater compliments than to have a client commission a second version of a painting already commissioned by the same client, in this case, the Gitlins.  For the second commissioned painting, again through Wells Gallery on Kiawah, the Gitlins requested an identical painting with the addition of an envelope to be addressed to Samantha Gitlin from her Grandfather.

The first Johnnie Walker Blue Label Blended Scotch Whisky painting was also commissioned painting through Wells Gallery, Kiawah, SC was inspired by my painting And So It Begins from my bourbon series. According to the Johnnie Walker website, “Johnnie Walker Blue Label is inspired by Alexander Walker’s 1868 Old Highland Whisky. It was at the forefront of an era when fewer casks were available and quality cask selection was in its infancy.  It is an exquisite combination of Scotland’s rarest and most exceptional whiskies. Only one in every ten thousand casks has the elusive quality, character and flavor to deliver the remarkable signature taste. An extraordinary whisky for extraordinary occasions.”

Painted from life in my home in South Carolina, I paired the JW Blue Label bottle with an antique lady's desk (circa 1910) acquired on a trip to Williamsburg, VA with my wife.  Included is a waterman pen and paper. Waterman began in 1883 and like fine Scotch whisky has a rich history centered on quality and fine craftsmanship.  The client provided a Waterford 7 oz Lismore classic tumbler to complete the still life arrangement.  

I was very excited to paint this particular bottle of scotch whisky. I was able to find a bottle of JW Blue label on the internet through Wine Globe.  I always paint these paintings from life in order to get the most color and quality of values for the painting.  The blue glass paired well with the reds and oranges in the wood of the secretary. In addition, when lit the bottle displayed a beautiful range of colors from yellows to ochres to cerulean blues and greens. 

Still life scene uniquely created and painted from life by the artist, 

Michael Reibel  www.mreibelpaintings.com