The Process

This portrait of my mother was created to celebrate her 40th birthday, a milestone often described as being “over the hill.” I wanted the piece to capture both her sense of humor about the phrase and the confidence, elegance, and joy that defined this moment in her life.

Using a stippling and cross-hatching technique, I focused on building light and shadow gradually to bring out the detail in her face, hair, and crown. The background waves add energy and contrast, emphasizing her as the central figure while also suggesting movement and vitality.

This work was as much about honoring her personality as it was about experimenting with mark-making. For me, the drawing is not only a portrait but also a reminder that milestones can be approached with both grace and laughter.