Back to Main FAQ Q. I noticed you photographed “John” in your video “The Captain’s Portrait.” Did you do that in order to paint him later in your studio away from the distraction of 300 onlookers? A. No. I always try to take a photo of my subject just for the record and as a reference for minor corrections later or detail I may have wished to include. The painting of John was done exactly as you see it, from start to finish in two hours with everyone watching and all the cameras rolling. Q. Do you agree that all works should be copyrighted? A. If you are famous or think you will be, it’s probably a good idea. However, it is a lot of expense and paperwork. For a complete answer pick up a copy of A Legal Guide for the Visual Artist by Tad Crawford. Such books are invaluable for other legal matters important to artists, particularly those concerning relationships with galleries, agents, publishers, and the IRS. Q. I have heard someone quote you as saying that you never add anything to a painting that is not in your subject, nor subtract anything. I find it difficult to believe you do not use individual expression in your work. Is that quote really true? A. No. What I did say was this: When I am painting strictly to learn, I try to capture exactly what I see, neither adding nor subtracting things or changing colors, values, drawing, etc. But—and this is a big BUT--when I paint to create a work of art (self-expression), ANYTHING goes. I am the creator and I am in charge. I often manipulate my subject freely to produce the image I want. I also said that Nature is perfect and does not need changing. There can be no doubt about that. However, nature itself is constantly being changed by its own natural forces, and since I am a part of nature I can choose to paint it the way I wish to. Nature couldn't care less, it will remain perfect. The bottom line for me is that my result must look absolutely authentic. I want my viewer to accept my picture as real. Back to Top