The goal of this self portrait was to experiment with high contrast dramatic lighting and the effects it has on facial features. To emphasize the negative space and the white of the paper, a subtractive light method with an eraser was used. Simple details of wallpaper with a design of pansy flowers were added in the background. The pansy flower is symbolic of self-expression and the subtlety of the symbolism alludes to the many ways, big and small, that people can express themselves, which was fitting for the subtle expression, too. Additionally, the clothing was kept very simplistic and reminiscent of the luxurious draped fabric seen in many Renaissance portraits of the wealthy merchant class to create a connection between the old and modern world.