Every time you use a search engine, it leaves a kind of thumb print. At least, when it takes you to my website. Many people end up on this page because they did a search for the name "Marlen Cowpland" or "nude pictures of Marlen Cowpland" or even weirder combinations of the above.

I just thought I'd say "Hi!" to those of you who arrived that way. Welcome to my art website. Have a look around.

Anyway, here's the story behind this painting:

"Can you paint a portrait of Marlen Cowpland for me?" a friend asked. "I think she's... fascinating."

I love taking requests, and Marlen is a larger than life character, an icon, something we can all look at with a feeling of wonder and amazement. Married to one of the richest men in Canada, she's mostly known for the surreal outfits she has worn at various functions. Who can forget the dress with the solid gold breast with a diamond nipple? I know I can't, no matter how many times I bang my head.

And what luck! A week after his request, The Ottawa Sun ran a photo spread dedicated to Marlen herself. I used these pictures as inspiration for my work.

My friend loved the painting, and had it professionally mounted and framed.