Calixto O’Neill Artistic Statement At seven years old, I began to draw the people I saw in newspapers and comic books. By instinct I began a process, which I presently teach. When initiating a portrait, I do not disempower myself with thoughts such as, how difficult it is to draw the ears, or fingers. Instead I commit myself to interpret what is in front of me by methodically drawing the lines, which create the edges of the various forms, and by observing the new negative spaces created each time I draw a new line. I accept the reality that the negative spaces are an important part of this process. I then analyze the values, which add depth and a sense of realism to my portrait. I am cognitive of the fact that my eyes, my hand and my brain synchronize to orchestrate a beautiful symphony, in which my hand plays all the instruments. I usually start with the eyes as my point of departure. From there I build the portrait one line at a time, for as long as it takes to satisfy me. When I am done I will sit back and treat myself to my greatest pleasure, to an immeasurable sense of accomplishment, which forces a tear of joy. And I think to myself, this is my passion, this is my love, this is my life. Presently I am focusing on portraiture using pastel and oil. I will try to encourage my models to pose in their environment of comfort for more natural results.