About the Cover
This original portrait of BSO Music Director Marin Alsop , painted by artist Erin Fitzpatrick , is based on a favorite photo supplied by the conductor in combination with an energetic floral pattern in colors reminiscent of Alsop ’ s iconic red cuffs . The artist and conductor met via Zoom , crossing continents from Baltimore to Vienna , to discuss the project and allow Fitzpatrick to gain a sense of her dynamic subject . After creating the reference image and learning the importance of the placement of the baton , Fitzpatrick created this 14 ” x 18 ” painting in oil on wood panel . As she painted , she focused on the tension and accuracy of Alsop ’ s pose , noting ,
“ I can imagine the energy of the pose , the pulling of the satin jacket taut between the shoulder blades . I am aware of the precision of Alsop ’ s actions , from the curve of her mouth to the poise of her fingertips .”
Using a contrasting palette of greyscale , Fitzpatrick painted shape by shape on the jacket ’ s back as if a puzzle , capturing the gleaming lights and dark shadows that bring this action to life . The deep green veins of the flowers radiate throughout the background reinforcing this energy , and the beauty of the petals remind the viewer of the symphony this energy ignites .
A graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art , Fitzpatrick resides and paints steps away from the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall in Baltimore ’ s Mount Vernon neighborhood . She paints portraits full time by commission for her clients around the globe .
Original portrait created for The Marin Festival by Erin Fitzpatrick is sponsored by Sandra Levi-Gerstung .
The Marin Festival Commemorative Program is sponsored by Susan Hovanec , Managing Director at RBC Wealth Management .
Portrait reference photograph by Maximilian Franz .