Family Portraits

Working on a project for my auntie, who turns 88 this week. She requested my assistance with creating a collage-type picture of her and her parents. The old photos she sent arrived yesterday afternoon, and I've scanned and photocopied and am working on creating something that will make her happy. 

This background first layer is actually photocopies of her writing, torn up and collaged onto a canvas panel. 

I'd asked about a favorite poem, or quote or song, and she remembered a poem by her sister Rosemary she's had posted for many years. When she unfolded it, she discovered that her copy was sent to her by her brother Patrick, which she'd forgotten. 

Both of these siblings died several years ago. Her note was very sweet and I decided that should make up the background. 

This is my preferred layout - early stages. Grandparents "cropped" to head shots. Auntie (in color) needs to be a bit bigger. 

Tinting of the poem (or printing on darker paper), paint to blend in the edges, and another quote still to be added. The layout is awaiting approval before the good copies of the photos are used and glued down and paints/inks applied. 

Final output will be cards for aunties children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, and the rest of us cousins too. I'm not sure I can make the cards happen before her party on Sunday (it's a 4 1/2 hour drive away), but the master will be ready to display at her party. 

If auntie gives the okay, I'll share the poem soon. It's lovely. :)

Sharing today with Paint Party Friday