The Aching Portrait of Jalil Hassan Hoskin-Truesdale by Anna Kocher

From Janet Truesdate, Jalil’s mother: Jalil Hassan Hoskin-Truesdale was a young man with dreams and admiration. He graduated from Delaware Valley Charter School at the age of 16. He is a father of three children, the brother of an older sibling, and my baby. September 4, when my son's life was taken, changed my life as well as my family. 

From the artist Anna Kocher: In my work I usually depict the human form, but I don't often paint traditional portraits. In fact, in much of my work the face is intentionally obscured to leave a sense of anonymity or universality. Painting this portrait of Jalil was a very different experience. It was challenging for me to capture his unique expression, but I found that the focus and effort required of me led me to reflect more deeply on him as a person. While painting I thought of his mother, children, brother, and family, and of all they loved about him and the loss his absence continues to be. The act of painting can be something like a meditation or a prayer, and I felt as though I was doing both while working on this project. 

From the curator: This portrait is aptly titled by Anna. Jalil seems to float in a realm of between-ness. His achingly handsome face in focus while the background is a palimpsest that drips and smudges away.

The Aching Portrait of Jalil Hassan Hoskin-Truesdale by Anna Kocher Oil and Graphite on Canvas 20" x 24" 2017