For this composition, existing photographs were used, as this was painted posthumously. The artist photographed the young man's dog, Shakespeare, and created the composition by combining elements. A fellow artist, Ray Boswell, modeled for one of the arms for which there were no photographic references.

Paul's mother Mary said of this painting: "I can hear him laugh."

When working on a difficult subject like this, it is impossible for the artist not to get involved emotionally. There is a moment that comes where Suzy knows the piece is finished, it is more of a instinct or the feel of the person coming through than an exact analysis of features and proportions. There is a moment where you just know.

"Paul Ames with Shakespeare"
oil on linen, 40" x 30", 2001