Dustin Hoffman

Painted in December 2007

Acrylic on canvas - 30 inch x 24 inch

Sold to a client in Singapore

Autographed by Dustin in June 2008

Painting the portrait involved over 30 hours of highly concentrated work, studying photographs and building up the detail carefully, perfecting an authentic representation of Dustin.

Leaving home at 5am, I travelled 100 miles up to London to the premiere of the animated film 'Kung Fu Panda' for which Dustin Hoffman provided the voice for a character.

I read online that he would be attending the premiere. As a huge admirer of one of the greatest actors of all time, one whom I take inspiration from in my own acting, I seized the chance of meeting him.

I arrived at Leicester Square at 12.30pm and waited with the crowd for 6 hours for the moment when Dustin arrived.

I held my painting over the barrier in one hand and a gold pen in the other hand for the signature.

I had my video camera hung around my chest hoping to capture the moment.

When Dustin Hoffman arrived he was wonderful, he spent over half an hour signing hundreds of autographs for many fans, chatting and joking with many people.

As he got close to me the fans around me began squashing up closer hoping to get an autograph. Quite a crush from all sides!

My camera got pushed out of my hands a few times but thankfully I managed to capture the moment when I briefly met him.

When Dustin Hoffman saw my painting he asked "Did you paint that?"

I replied "Yes"

He said "Wow! Oh My God! You have great talent!"

He kindly wrote on my painting:

"To Paul, a real artist, Dustin Hoffman 2008"

I was very touched that such a famous and talented actor as Dustin would write such a kind message on my painting.

A moment, and signature, to treasure forever.

Below is the film of Dustin signing the portrait