I was commissioned to do a sketch at a dinner party in South East Orlando. The host had a gorgeous home in a brand new development surrounded by woods and plenty of lakes. On the table were photos of his class mates. Some of the photos must have been rather funny judging by people’s reactions.Years have passed since their careers have blossomed and developed. Such a reunion always reminds me of The Big Chill. Everyone makes the most of the life they have and reminisce about the innocence lost.
I set up as soon as I arrived and sketched the table as everyone mixed and mingled. It turned out that the leather chair I was sitting in was pushed aside and was intended for the host himself at the head of the table. We switched seats when everyone settled in with their plates. It pays to always have an artist’s stool on hand.
A Chihuly chandelier illuminated the entry, and a painting of a warm Mediterranean scene overlooked the table. Yellow and red roses acted as center pieces. The candles were lit just before everyone sat down. One woman insisted I sketch her good side which was the opposite side of her face if she sat where she was placed at the table. Honestly, I couldn’t see her anyway once everyone was seated and eating. Just the luck of the draw. There was plenty of laughter. The host had wanted me to sketch a party quite a few months ago, but I was pulled away on another assignment. For that party he invited people by Facebook, and not many people showed up. This time around he kept the dinner party small and everyone attended. The fun in being a casual artistic observer is in wondering about everyone in attendance, writing my own scenarios in my head. Everyone was pleasant and fun and I felt honored to document an important occasion.