Eli

Eli | 20”x 20” | Oil on Canvas | Commission

Eli is one of 5 home schooled children raised in an upper New York two bedroom apartment by parents Eric and Emily Orton.
 
Eli and his siblings have been exposed to such experiences as living for a year on a sail boat, sailing from the Bahamas to NY (see their book “Seven At Sea, Why a New York City Family Cast off Convention for a Life-Changing Year on a Sailboat”, Shadow Mountain Publishing).
 
They have done serious mountain climbing in Nevada, and gone road tripping through Europe. They have met, visited with, and learned from talented and interesting people who have “stayed the night” on their couch. I too have “stayed the night” more than once. In their front room, they have participated in “jam sessions” with many visiting musicians. These are bright, insightful kids who will be terrific additions to the adult world.

I admire, respect and am inspired by the whole Orton family.
The reference photo for this painting was taken by Eli’s dad Eric.
Here we see a head and chest view of Eli. He faces forward and stares directly and boldly at the viewer. Eli is wearing his dad’s Fedora hat which was passed down from Eric’s dad.
 
"You should have the Art you Love."