Painting from Life: Juno

Spending an afternoon sketching and painting from life offers an experience unlike any other. It challenges the artist to observe closely, capture fleeting expressions, and translate the essence of a person onto paper or canvas. Recently, I had the opportunity to be with the Filipino Portrait Artists Guild for a session featuring the sitter Juno Henares-Chuidian. This gathering was more than just a chance to practice technique—it was a moment to connect with the subject and the art in a deeply personal way.

Guest sitter Juno Henares-Chuidian.

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The making of Juno’s portrait, painted from life.

The Unique Challenge of Painting from Life

Painting from life demands a different kind of focus than working from photographs or imagination. When you paint a living person, you must respond to subtle changes in posture, light, and mood. Juno’s calm presence made this easier, but the challenge remained: how to capture not just her likeness but her character.

Sitting comfortably, Juno confidently held her pose for up to four hours, pausing only for five-minute breaks between 25-minute sessions.

Almost finished, making the final checks and retouches before signing the piece. 

Juno, who greatly appreciated my oil painting, posed for one final photo—this time with the artist.

Artists often talk about the “energy” of a live subject. It’s a mix of the sitter’s personality and the atmosphere in the room. For me, this energy guides every brushstroke. I noticed how Juno’s relaxed demeanor invited softer lines and gentle shading. This session reminded me that painting from life is as much about listening with your eyes as it is about technical skill.

With fellow members of the Filipino Portrait Artists Guild at Gateway Studio, Cubao, Quezon City, on the afternoon of March 5, 2026.

Until the next session. Cheers!