The Portrait 2012
Distributed by National Film Board of Canada, 1123 Broadway, Suite 307, New York, NY 10010; 800-542-2164
Produced by Lea Marin
Directed by Hubert Davis
DVD, color, 41 min.
Jr. High - General Adult
Art, Painting
Date Entered: 07/11/2013
Reviewed by Sebastian DerryCanadian painter Phil Richards receives possibly the most prestigious art commission in the entire Western World: to paint a new portrait of Queen Elizabeth II in honor of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.
As one of Canada’s most acclaimed visual artists, the task facing Richards is daunting to say the least. But as Hubert Davis relates in the journey of both the artist and the work—the modest and soft-spoken Richards stands revealed as the supreme portrait painter of this or any era.
Taking inspiration from one of his heroes, the Early Renaissance painter Piero della Francesca, Richards’ turns his prodigious talent to the task. His fastidiousness, self-discipline and perseverance (which would be the envy of any Olympic athlete) are on full display as he creates studies, models and maquettes all in preparation for eventually crafting the 9-foot by 6-foot portrait.
This is a thrilling, exhilarating ride. The creative process has rarely been depicted in film as well as it is here.
Highly recommended for all libraries.