Capturing Era Through Dress and Portraiture

This series reflects the elegance and character of the 1940s, an era when fashion and etiquette shaped how individuals presented themselves to the world. Hats, veils, gloves, caps, and tailored clothing were not just style choices but signals of identity, confidence, and social presence. By focusing on posture, gesture, and dress, these portraits draw on vintage influences to explore how character and poise were communicated through appearance, offering a timeless interpretation of that era within the Portraits & Expressions Collection.

The Process
Each portrait was developed from photographic reference and translated into graphite using a range of pencils, including dark ebony and 12B graphite for depth and contrast. Fine pencil work was used to build facial structure, clothing texture, and tonal transitions, with particular attention given to details such as veils, hats, gloves, jackets, and caps. Controlled shading and deliberate line placement emphasize form and posture, allowing clothing and gesture to support the subject’s expression. The works included in this group are Mademoiselle and Mademoiselle’s Son.

Inspiration & Meaning
The inspiration behind this work comes from a desire to capture the character and elegance of the 1940s, influenced by vintage fashion, swing-era culture, and the tradition of dressing with intention. Clothing becomes a reflection of identity, while posture and gaze convey confidence, heritage, and presence. Through Mademoiselle and Mademoiselle’s Son, this portion of the Portraits & Expressions Collection highlights how style and etiquette shape expression, honoring a time when character was communicated through detail, presentation, and quiet confidence.