Before the performance

This painting began as a life study of the model dressed as a ballerina. Prior the 2 hour pose, the model did quick poses during which I took several photos to use as reference.   I also took a photo of the long pose as I knew I would not be able to finish it in that time.  I have been wanting to paint a ballerina for so long.  When I came back to my studio, i decided to change the sitting pose a bit, as the one she had while posing was a bit stiff.  I was lucky to have a shot of her while she was trying to get herself in the pose, which to me seemed more natural.  I added another pose and created a mirrored image and to complete the story, added the rose in her right hand.