Judge Michael Duffy, Patrick Duffy, the artist and Brian Duffy presenting the portrait

This past St Patrick’s day was the big annual event at the Hibernia Society in Charleston. The Irish centered organization is a society, not a club, and is not affiliated with the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH). A National Historic Landmark, the Hibernian Hall was completed in 1840, and hosted the Stephen Douglas faction of the Democrat party in the convention of 1860.

At this annual event, the oil portrait of the past President is unveiled. This year that honor fell upon Patrick Duffy, who was the President of the society over the past year. His portrait will now join the portrait tradition of illustrious presidents going back to the beginning of the society in 1840.

Patrick Duffy’s day job is Director of the Center for Drug and Alcohol Programs at MUSC. Becoming the President of the Hibernian Society was a long process of working on various committees and initiatives to get to the point of being nominated and ultimately elected by the membership. The portrait collection is impressive and a little intimidating. They line the walls throughout the Hibernia Society.

About his portrait and the portrait process, Duffy said, “I’m impressed how you took the time to understand me and how best to capture me, not just my physical appearance, in the painting. I learned a lot about light, shadows and color, as well as why certain poses may be better than others. I appreciate how we worked together to refine the final portrait through discussion and understanding, knowledge and talent. It was exciting and educational and ultimately led to a wonderful portrait.” We worked from life at the end of the process, in my studio, to add the finishing touches. Patrick’s daughter’s initials are carved into the Presidential chair. President Duffy’s cufflinks depict the Irish flag. I enjoyed the bright light streaming through a window at the club where the portrait was set and where I took a battery of photographs I used as my primary reference. As I am not a member, I was not allowed at the event itself, so we set up a mock unveiling and had a wonderful lunch at 52 Queen. All in all, a wonderful experience.