Gizmo

First attempt and Reference Photo

Gizmo, 17x22

This one was challenging.  I got it right on the third drawing and second painting attempts.  Indoor pictures make it hard for me to create interesting light direction and contrast, but I still feel I captured the emotion of Gizmo, which is more important.  And, as always, I learned a lot- specifically that I think I like Kilimanjaro paper over Arches (the tooth is finer), and that I need to approach a painting with at least three techniques in mind, not just one.  Also, I think I'm going to invest in more prep work for each painting, that is, to create value sketches. 

My next two are on their way- a puppy named Bella, and a Black Lab named Spud. 

Libby

Libby 8x10

Here is Libby!  So cute and so fun to paint.  The smallest commission I've ever done!  Enjoy her process pictures.  I'll have another post soon of Gizmo, an older dog with lots of character.

Lessons from the Jellyfish

I hate painting less than stellar work.  I know I am my harshest critic, and even though I like it that way, I have to remember how good it feels to put paint to paper, even when it doesn't turn out.

While waiting for the pictures for my next commissions, I decided to paint a 'for fun' painting of jellyfish.  I loved the picture when I saw it, and I wanted to paint it right away.  I could instantly tell it would be a great way for me to practice glazing (multiple washes of color to create an area of rich, vibrant, and smooth color), masking and blending.  I would also be able to practice painting a subject that didn't have eyes.

And, all in all, I did get to practice those things.  This painting really challenged me.  I spent a lot more time on it than I do most commissions.  And, it didn't turn out.  I was pretty bummed at first.  Having spent so much time on it and having had my vision of a bright, captivating jellyfish painting not realized was hard.

But I learned so much!  And I had so much fun painting this that I'm still glad I did it.  Also, in my search for solace during my post-painting bummed-ness, I read two different articles that really encouraged me.  They talked about how every artist has work that doesn't turn out and times when painting doesn't come easily.    The biggest lesson I learned is that I can't let one failed painting, or hundreds, get to me.  Art is a process, and I love it.  The ups are great, and the downs are wonderful learning opportunities.  I can't wait to keep painting!

And, a special shout out to my favorite person, who is the most encouraging and supportive of all my endeavors   I wouldn't be this excited about painting if it wasn't for you!

Here are the process pictures of the jellyfish.  This painting was mainly unsuccessful because I went overboard in the end with red, and ended up with a muddy, washed out looking middle.  Also, my blue glazes weren't completely smooth and too dark.