Original artwork description:

This is a portrait of Octavia, daughter of my friends Chris and Jenny. Octavia loves volcanoes, and if you ask her which one is her favorite she will say, "Krakatoa!" immediately. She's one of those wonderful little girls who loves science. Here she is lying on the library floor, looking at books about volcanoes, and I like how her shoes, socks, and pants resemble a tiny volcano. The title is from a Dead Milkmen song.

Most of my portraits feature books in one way or another--I think you can tell a lot about a person based on what they like to read. I had fun painting the colorful shelves of this children's library, the floral pattern on Octavia's coat, her thoughtful expression, and the many many many books.

Materials used:

watercolor, gouache

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