Digital Portrait - Teisi Tamale (Mother-in-Law)

This digital portrait of my beloved mother-in-law, Teisi Tamale, was created about a year before her passing. At the time, she was 90, and although we all wished for more time with her, we knew that her days were limited. My wife asked if I could paint her in preparation for Teisi's eventual funeral, a request I was honored to fulfill.

The portrait was created entirely in Procreate, with a single reference photo. You can see the full process in the included timelapse video.

It was a true privilege to capture the spirit of such an extraordinary woman. Teisi raised my wife and her nine siblings with a fierce and unwavering love, and it’s clear to me that my wife’s strength as a mother and wife is largely due to Teisi’s nurturing influence. Teisi will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Ofa lahi atu, Tesisi—may you rest in peace.