contemporary portrait

Pope John Paul II. 

portrait by painter Nelson Shanks.

http://www.artrenewal.org/pages/artwork.php?artworkid=15521

http://www.nelsonshanks.com/galleries_portraits_01.html

http://www.prnewswire.com/

This portrait of Pope John Paul II, was painted by nelson shanks (who has painted the likes of president Williams Jefferson Clinton, princes Diana, lord Spencer and many more). The portrait was unveiled in January 2003, but painted from April to October 2002.

Before painting this portrait, shanks put in a great deal of research, such as photography work at the mass too sketching the Pope during privet audience.

Looking at the portrait I get a sense of owe. The painting has captured the Pope as a holy being, from the white robe to the cross he is holding; but mostly is the way he has his hand up and open as if he is blessing someone also it’s a sign of welcome and openness.  The gold in is gown is a sign of wealth and also the gold crown/head piece is a sign of authority and leadership.  

The background of the portrait is very captivating. The gold’s and the brown, makes the portrait look worm and welcoming.  If I were to interpret this painting I would say that the Pope is opening his hands to welcome all in.