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I've been a part of the restaurant industry in the Bay Area for nearly 20 years. Restaurant work is how i supported myself as an artist when selling work alone wouldn't pay the bills. We in this industry have been hit especially hard by the pandemic of Covid 19. This portrait of Christian is one of a series of pictures of my friends and coworkers in the business. Christian is a cook at Chez Panisse in Berkeley. I try to portray them possessing a sense of power, emanating a protective force. I like to hint Christian is surrounded by magic. Its my attempt to uplift and celebrate this tribe of people that I belong with. They are some of the most creative and interesting people I encounter in the Bay Area.

The portraits have allowed me a jumping off place to explore rhythm, pattern and texture in painting. I'm combining painting, drawing and collage in order to create three dimensional, almost sculpture like work. I intend to continue this series indefinitely, or until I draw everyone I know and love in the restaurant world.

Carolynn Haydu

Carolynnhaydu@gmail.com