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Amy - Jon Marquette

Amy (2) - Jon Marquette

Antonio's Afternoon- Jon Marquette

Apu - Jon Marquette

"Apu" was painted in late Aug 2006. It was one of the last paintings I did in Hungary. It's a favorite of mine, a heart-felt portrait of my Father-in-Law.

During our summer vacation, Ildi, Antonio and I stayed mostly with Ildi's parents, Anu and Apul, in Villiany', Hungary. A small city spread across the slopes of a hilly region in South Hungary noted for its vast vineyards and the production of red wine. I painted several cityscapes in Villany', consisting of wine cellars, houses and restaurants. Near the end of our vacation, Ildi asked me if I might consider painting her father, to which I immediately agreed on the condition we all could convince "Tonchi" to sit, relax and "pose" for a minimum of two hours.

I worked fast to set-up my palette in the family courtyard. Ildi brought out the stereo and played romantic Melodies, her father's favorite, from 50's. I enjoyed red wine produced from a local vineyard and quickly outlined my Father-in-Law's predominant facial features. A warm glow appeared on "Tonchi's" face, we both relaxed and enjoyed our roles, the model and the painter.

Upon completion, Ildi and her mother reviewed and asked about the jaw-line, to which I replied, "I'm painting the essence of Tonchi, the spirit Tonchi... note the angular jaw-line, Tonchi's youth is in the jaw-line!"

Idi, Antonio and I left Hungary and our family hours later, headed back to the USA. I completed ten paintings in Hungary and Croatia. The painting of Apu remains invaluable to me, the memory of the sunny afternoon forever etched into my heart.

Tragically, we lost Apu in November to Cancer. It was unexpected. Ildi tells me Anu treasures the painting of "Tonchi". - Jon

Aralyn - Jon Marquette

Aztec Warriors - Jon Marquette

Blue Pool - Jon Marquette

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