Capturing Childhood Joy: The Story Behind "Unica" and a Heartwarming Commission

 Capturing Childhood Joy: The Story Behind "Unica" and a Heartwarming Commission

Art is more than just paint on a canvas; it's a vessel for emotions, memories, and deeply personal stories. In 2020, I had the privilege of creating a commission that perfectly embodied this concept: a painting titled "Unica." This piece, measuring 90x60cm and executed in oil over acrylic on a primed wood panel, captures a poignant moment of childhood joy and familial love. Today, I want to share the story behind "Unica," exploring the emotional depth and artistic process that brought it to life.

 


Double portrait painting by Jad Zeitouni artist art contemporary abstract realism



The Client's Vision: A Nostalgic Journey

My client approached me with a beautiful and heartfelt idea: to immortalize a cherished memory of her childhood. She envisioned a painting that depicted herself as a young girl, sharing a special moment with her grandmother. During our initial conversations, which I always find enriching as they allow me to connect with my subjects, she revealed a sweet detail: her grandmother would always give her a "Unica" chocolate wafer bar (a beloved Lebanese treat by Ghandour) during her visits. This simple act of kindness held immense sentimental value, representing the love and warmth of their relationship.


The Artistic Process: Emotion and Expression

For me, a successful painting is a harmonious blend of emotion and expression. In "Unica," I aimed to capture the fleeting moment just before the exchange of the chocolate bar, highlighting the anticipation and pure joy of childhood. The composition reflects two opposing expressions: the grandmother's gentle, loving gaze and the child's eager anticipation. This contrast creates a dynamic narrative within the painting, inviting the viewer to feel the emotional connection between the two figures.


Portrait Painting by Jad Zeitouni Arist



Technical Details and Medium:

"Unica" was created using oil paint over an acrylic underpainting on a primed wood panel. This technique allowed me to build layers of texture and depth, enhancing the richness of the colors and the overall visual impact. The 90x60cm size provided ample space to develop the scene and capture the intricate details of the subjects.


Do you have a cherished memory you'd like to immortalize in a painting? I specialize in creating custom artworks that capture the essence of your personal stories and emotions. Contact me today to discuss your vision and bring your memories to life.


Portrait Painting by artist Jad Zeitouni



"Unica" is more than just a painting; it's a testament to the power of memory and the enduring bond between generations. Through art, we can preserve these precious moments and share them with the world. I hope this glimpse into the story behind "Unica" has resonated with you, and I invite you to explore the emotional depth that art can bring.


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Location: Beirut, Lebanon

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