Portrait of a student- India Ink on paper

I have taken interest in women’s sociocultural roles since this recent election. Students of various ethnicities, especially the girls, have remained very quiet in my classes since the recent presidential results. After researching a little about Veemers famous painting, Girl with a Pearl Earing, I looked deeper in the expression of the girl wearing the turban. Her gaze is sad and still as she stares out at the viewer. When I painted this portrait, I had a particular student in mind. One a very talkative, lovely and vivacious girl has become silent. I am almost concerned…

I tried to use color to suggest a grim and sad mood;  I also incorporated text maybe to suggest her oppressed thoughts. I may do some more portraits this upcoming week…