Portraits

Memoriam

Portraits that keep loved ones near, and the moments that taught me how much a painting can mean.

Christopher Finkle

26 Jun 2022 • 2 min read

Early in my portrait painting, I was commissioned to paint from a favourite photo of a special person who had left us some years before, and far too soon. After completing the commission, I realized how much the painting meant to the family.

That was an “aha” moment for me. I thought it would be nice to do this for other families as they dealt with the loss of a loved one. Along with the original paintings, prints have been made and shared with family members, to remind them that their loved ones are still near and dear to their hearts.

Portraits in remembrance

Portrait painting of James Simpson beside his great-grandson, with an open flight log. — James Simpson and his great-grandson

Seeing people’s reactions to a painting warms my heart. I’m grateful to feel that I have contributed in some small way to easing their sadness.

Framed portrait painting of Ernie wearing a red hoodie, dark cap and glasses. — Ernie

I painted Ernie’s portrait as a gift for his brother, Gerry.

Two men standing together with the framed portrait of Ernie. — With the finished portrait of Ernie, a gift for his brother Gerry.

Portrait painting of a woman with short white hair, glasses and a pale cardigan. — Memorial portrait — white hair and glasses

Those remembered here include my brother Peter, Uncle Frank, cousin Rosie, sister-in-law Leslie, good friend Michael (not pictured), and Papa Jim.

More portraits in remembrance

Portrait painting of a person with short dark hair against a dark background. — Memorial portrait — short dark hair

Framed portrait painting of a woman with short light-brown hair and a pearl necklace. — Memorial portrait — pearl necklace

Portrait painting of an older man in a light shirt with a flower at his chest. — Memorial portrait — boutonnière

Portrait painting of a woman with glasses and a turquoise scarf against a red background. — Memorial portrait — turquoise scarf

Framed portrait painting of a man wearing a light cap and dark glasses beside the water. — Memorial portrait — cap and sunglasses

Portrait painting of a smiling woman with short grey hair and a dark patterned blouse. — Memorial portrait — patterned blouse

“Imagination is an invincible portrait.”

Thank you,
Christopher Finkle

The same care for a loved one’s memory runs through my pet portraits and family portraits.

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Portraits in remembrance

More portraits in remembrance

Art, with a story to tell.