Monday, June 27, 2011

P.T. BARNUM by Linda Popple

6x6 Oil on Paper
Phineas Taylor Barnum 1810-1891

This is a painting for Carol Morgan's moleskin. Her theme is "Sides." Mr. Barnum was known for his sideshows which began when he was only 25 years old. He paid Joice Heath $1,000.00 to be put on exhibit. She claimed to be 161 years old and a nurse for George Washington. From this exhibit he made about $1,500.00 per week! And thus began the sideshow and soon his Barnum & Bailey Circus.

This was really fun to paint and also to learn more about P.T. Barnum. He was certainly an interesting person.


3 comments:

  1. Linda, I've been out of touch and behind in visiting blogs, this is a wonderful portrait and I love your take on Carol's theme of Sides. In addition to the great shadows on P.T. Barnum's face I really like that little swipe of turquoise by his forehead; very, very nice, Linda!

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  2. Great portrait, Linda, and interesting tidbit on the beginning of the circus.

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  3. Linda, I love my painting and the interesting story that goes with it! How wonderful!

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