This is a study of one of the babies that live in the Francis Residence for mothers at CHiPS. I originally thought this would be for a smaller piece (hence the lines), but I really like how the lines create a frame that the halo breaks out of.
As an artist, I'm interested in what creates the effect of holiness. It's a combination of expression, iconography, and context. In this case, we see the baby looking knowledgeably on, as if he has a secret. He's got the tell-tale halo, showing that he's holy, and he's a child of a single mother who has been taken in by an organization that is saint like.
This piece is part of my exhibition – The Faces of CHiPS - What if God lived in Gowanus? – a series of studies and portraits of the people of CHiPS, a soup kitchen/residence that has served my neighborhood for 50 years. All proceeds from sales of paintings and prints will be donated to CHiPS to further their mission.
The original is 11" x 14". Note: there are some faint pencil lines that are part of the image. You may decide to frame these out, buy I like them.
