I have known and respected Miguel’s work for some time now. We both studied at the Hartford Art School and graduated a year apart. We were always aware of each other’s work, but only encountered each other in passing. It wasn’t until the fall of 2009 at Billing Forge where we really started to talk about painting. This February we became roommates and formed an incredible bond. I wouldn’t be surprised if we talked more about painting than actually painting.

This is a portrait of Miguel in our apartment right before he left to study at graduate school in New York City. It was painted in just two sittings, as he was quite busy moving. I deeply respect Miguel for his philosophical insight and seemingly infinite knowledge about painting. His work is true, inspired by life and deeply thoughtful. This is what I strived to achieve with my depiction.