This self-portrait was completed as a project for my oil painting class.  When the assignment was announced, my classmates were exploring eccentric techniques and artsy poses.  I attempted to come up with something as equally extravagant but was faced with the reality that the ideas simply did not match my personality.  Upon further exploration, I landed on the decision to capture my everyday self rather than settling on a false representation of who I was.  So with a new sense of direction, I grabbed my roommate and threw on my favorite hat and flannel.  We set up a few lights in a dark stairwell of the art building and were able to capture a dreamy candid shot with a touch of drama in the exploration of chiaroscuro.  Pleased with the result, I was able to run with the photo and make the idea come to life on the canvas.