I choose my models because they have "the thing"--that intensity, that depth of soul that seems to emanate from them. It is that elusive quality that I must capture in the portrait. About once a year I will draw for weeks on end but still can't find a way to bring it out.

As with Justin, my current project, I love the look, but not how I drew him so I must let it go and start a new piece. I strive to always improve my skills, so in the future I may come back to Justin and try again.

All images © Mary Borgman, 2009