This model turned out to be a favorite. This is the fourth painting to come out of a session with her.
The long-suffering Mrs. Keeley agreed, to her regret, to an interminable photo session one chilly spring evening. Her white sweater and hair seen against the unpainted studio wall proved fascinating. That plus her shiny-bright wit makes her an irresistible subject.
I met the widow in most unpleasant circumstance. I was convalescing from a grave illness (staph infection) that required daily nurse visits to our home in Indian Mills, NJ. The duty soon devolved to Mrs. Keeley. Her daily visits cheered my spirits and–I am convinced–hastened my recovery.
When I was well enough to get around, she agreed to pose. Having not painted for several weeks made me too demanding, I’m afraid.
She made frequent trips to Atlantic City and lost–she maintained-shockingly large amounts. Her son is a television personality in Philadelphia.
I wanted to paint the subject simply, but, as sometimes happens, I over-drew some parts and had to simplify. I simplified the sweater several times. I finished the painting several days ago. I have two more of the same subject still in-hand, one large (4′ x 5′).
Here is another painting from that session.
