I started this oil sketch last Saturday morning (5/1) in front of ‘Cup of Joe’ not knowing much about the place except it was interesting visually being at the entrance to Commercial Alley looking toward Market Sq. I was to be interviewed by Ian Lenahan from the Portsmouth Herald. I worked on the painting again on Sunday (5/2) and Thursday (5/6). By the end of Thursday morning I had laughed with Ian and photographer Deb Cram more often than I had stroked the painting - which was good for me and probably the painting.
The next great surprise was meeting the owner of Cup of Joe - that is Jo Kelley. A fascinating young woman who is destined to be a political force from my brief conversations!
The painting depicts the early morning light and colors - and the constant activity in this little part of Portsmouth
Oil on board, 24 x 28”, Richard Burke Jones
