Why do I Paint Flesh Green?

This is a very early painting. It has remained one of my favorites. It dates back to around 1973. I lived in Boston. Most of my friends were musicians. I often photographed them using high speed black and white film for their promotional materials. This is a portrait of the lead singer of a band called Flyer. He had just gotten out of jail and was happy to back with the band. I didn't realize I was painting his flesh green at the time. Over the years, I've painted numerous green-fleshed paintings and I never realize I'm doing it until it's already done.

Image: Arnie - Oil on a scrap of canvas