Trained in the classical tradition, Cole's portraits echo Rembrandt, Vermeer, Velazquez, and other artists whose work has inspired Cole throughout her career. Most of the portraits she has created were commissioned by businesses, organizations, religious and academic institutions, and individuals. Cole has, however, created portraits on her own, experimenting with various techniques and exploring one of the subject matters she finds most interesting: the figure. In addition to working in oils, Cole uses charcoal, graphite, and mixed media to depict the figure in a variety of ways, including head studies, as well as half-, three-quarter-, and full-figure studies. She also creates portraits with more than one figure. Cole's portraits have been acclaimed for her draftsmanship and smooth surface quality, as well as for her ability to capture the inner spirit of a person. Below is a sample of Cole's drawings depicting the figure. To view these samples in greater detail, click on the appropriate image. For information on commissioning a portrait, click here.