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| 11 by 14 watercolor on paper "Lucy" ©Maria's Watercolor Art 2013 |
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| sketch transferred to watercolor paper from sketchpad with graphite paper, adding some color to those pretty eyes. |
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| adding some loose color to the background |
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| Blocking in color on the face, using WN Paynes Grey, French UM Blue, Burnt Sienna |
Thought it might be interesting to see some progress shots of a pet painting. I start with choosing the best photo. And begin sketching pencil on paper. And then use graphite paper to transfer the outline of the sketch to my painting paper. I don't usually begin with the eyes, but this time I did! I pick a basic color palette before I put paint on paper, but don't always stick strictly to it. I check in periodically with the owner to be sure I am on track and they don't have any changes. I often end with adding touches of white to eyes and fur to give some extra highlights.
Dear Maria,
ReplyDeleteMy mother commissioned this portrait of our sweet Lucy girl for my husband and I. When we opened your lovely wrapping and saw those eyes, we wept. You have captured our Lucy girl's soul in those eyes. You have such an amazing talent. Thank you for giving us such a wonderful way to remember her.
Hugs,
Erica and Michael
It is funny but I usually struggle to get the eyes on the paper, and I always save them for the end of the painting, but her eyes were so remarkable, and lovely I had to work on them right away. I am so sorry for your loss, I can tell she was a close friend to you and your husband. The house can seem so big and empty and quiet when they are gone. And thank you for the kind words, it means so much to me. Wishing you both comfort, Maria
DeleteWhat a stunning painting, Maria. The lab is just gorgeous and I love the shadow on the wall behind her!!
ReplyDeleteThank you! I really enjoyed painting her.
DeleteBlack dogs are difficult in watercolour - but you've made it look easy and produced an outstanding piece! Bravo!
ReplyDeleteThank you Pat! Black dogs are so hard. I sometimes get too much blue in my darks. And I tend to not go dark enough, afraid to lose those highlighted areas.
DeleteShe is lovely, Maria. You have painted her with such a look of sweetness in her expression.
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