By Michael Gormley
Everett Raymond Kinstler, The Entertainer, oil on canvas, 24 x 20 in.
About four years ago I had the pleasure of receiving an invitation to meet Everett Raymond Kinstler in his newly constructed Connecticut studio; I was researching an article on artists’ studios for American Artist magazine and Kinstler’s new digs were decidedly newsworthy. I was very excited about landing this interview; though we had become acquainted through mutual friends, our conversations had been limited to professional social gatherings and as expected were somewhat fleeting. Here now was a wonderful opportunity to spend time getting to know this celebrated artist and his work.
Kinstler’s new studio building sits atop a wooded hilltop rising above a march of rolling hills in a setting that can only be described as magical. “Barnlike” doesn’t quite nail the scope and elegant design of the structure—but think big—like an airplane hangar. A soaring expanse of sheer glass comprises most of the studio’s north wall; it offers a priceless view of unobstructed sky and a steady flow of caressing light—the kind of light that makes everyone look like an angel. The kind of light that winks at genius.
Upon entering the studio I sighted a double portrait still in process. The canvas was pure enchantment— glowing with a quality of color and light that rivaled nature’s own. I longed to be one of the spirited subjects depicted in that canvas—and to live forever after in this fearless world of bravura brush work that dared to be happy. In an instant I understood the powerful attraction of a Kinstler portrait—how could one resist wanting to be painted like this—as only he could? Who could resist being seen and remembered as an active participant in a spirited world? To be painted like this—one might just begin living as if life were indeed magical.
Kinstler’s stunning portrait of Tony Bennett, pictured here, will be on display at the Salmagundi Club for the Portraits, Inc. exhibition, “Today’s Portraits." It certainly fits the Kinstler model of a spirited soul that embraces life to its fullest. Maybe that’s why famous artists and entertainers have long been attracted to Kinstler and want to be painted by him. They like to shine brightly—and he’s good at capturing that love-of-life star quality. Or maybe Kinstler’s artistry brings out that quality in his sitters; he gifts them with a view of themselves living fully and happily—a model of good living to aspire to.
I personally subscribe to the idea that life follows art. When a sitter complained to Picasso that he didn’t resemble his portrait, Picasso famously quipped, “Don’t worry, you will.” My thinking is that the world would be a far better and happier place if everyone had their portrait painted by Kinstler. Like Tony here, we could take the time to look up into the clear light of a big sky and allow our spirits to soar.
To inquire about commissioning a portrait by Everett Raymond Kinstler (or another Portrait Inc. artist), please contact us.
Michael Gormley is a painter, writer, curator and regular contributor to the Portraits, Inc. blog. Gormley is the former editor of American Artist magazine and most recently created the fine art catalog for Craftsy--an online education platform.
Portraits, Inc. was founded in 1942 in New York on Park Avenue. Over its 70-year history, Portraits, Inc. has carefully assembled a select group of the world’s foremost portrait artists offering a range of styles and prices. Recognized as the industry leader, Portraits, Inc. provides expert guidance for discerning clients interested in commissioning fine art portraits.