Capturing Tranquility: A Painting of My Son in Merida

Acrylic on Canvas 2026 by Warren DeFerbrache

a painting of my son making plans on his iPhone in a Mexican Restaurant in 2025

My son is calmly using his iphone. His posture and relaxed face convey a sense of peace, which is what made me want to create this work. That and the aged and worn setting which also gives me a sense of tranquility. It feels to me like the place has always Been and always will be.

The restaurant is very old as are most of the Buildings in Merida. The walls have been painted many times and the last time was a long time ago.

My style is to go for Realism and detail but still make the work look like a painting and not a photograph. I feel that goal was achieved in this painting

I spent about 50 hours on this Particular work which is created with acrylic paint on museum grade canvas and frame. I used a lot of green gold which makes my son’s shirt and the wall behind him go well together. The yellow of the wall is green gold with more yellow and white added.

More dining space can be seen on the right which lends a sense of depth and spaciousness to the painting. The subject is turned slightly to the left and the closeness causes a forced perspective. Notice the right arm is huge compared to the left.

the artist with his painting – just finished