WIP - Beginning puppy portrait
This puppy, about 10 weeks old, is saying, "I am too cute; wouldn't you like to cuddle me?"
The minute I was sent these photos, I just had that itch to paint him right away... no matter that I have five or so other projects on the go.
This is the reason I will never be bored with art. A new project comes along and really gets me all fired up. I like having a choice of projects whether it is a mermaid on reclaimed wood, a watercolour portrait, or a furry friend painted on canvas.
As I was sent many digital images of this puppy in different poses, and told to choose any one of them to paint, (I love having that freedom), the first thing I did was to print two of the better photos.
I chose to work from this image in particular because of his very laid back attitude. And look at those paws! He is going to be a big boy! However, the left side is too dark (see the big black blob that is his eye?) and so I will be using a second photo (see below) taken outdoors, with more accurate colours.
After a light pencil has been used to mark the general shapes, I use a Stabilo Aquarellable pencil to add the lines, some darker and some lighter. Then, I add water to soften some lines and suggest shading in other areas.
The blue will disappear under the paint; however, this time, I really want to attempt something different than what I have done before, something more colourful perhaps than the actual portrait, so I might add to the blue and darken it and let it show through.
At this stage, I have blocked in the pillow and extended the orange to the side of the canvas. The background is an experiment and will not remain as shown.
I am considering layers of glaze for the background, or perhaps stamping and stencilling. It might even end up being collaged or a little of everything I have mentioned. And sometimes, I just use a simple background as with Kiwi.
The point is that I am never quite sure which techniques I will use on these pets. My ultimate goal though is to always please the owner.
I will post updates as I work on this adorable puppy.
Stay tuned!
My gosh this puppy is the cutest thing I have ever seen! Makes me want to do the puppy thing again! Almost! We are doing grand doggy sitting for the next 2 weeks so I probably will not feel the same way when it’s time for him to go home to his family.
Thanks for sharing your pictures.
Thanks Kathy. Puppies are easier than grandkids I am starting to think! You might have heard of our two trips to Emergency in one weekend with one grandchild. Lots of fun! Enjoy the doggy sitting!