Pet Portrait (WIP)

9/22/26 - Turkey feathers are super challenging, so I had to step back from yesterday's piece. Today, I continued my work on this cutie. I feel comfortable with the nose, eyes and braid. I'm just getting a feel for the colors and how warm the face should or shouldn't be. The right eye was kind of hidden in the reference photo, so improvised a little. I'll add a strand of hair over the top so it doesn't look wonky. Tomorrow I'll block in the body and ears. (which I should have done already!) After that it's just a matter of details and she'll be ready to go home. -acrylic on canvas

Next on deck are two oil paintings that have been waiting for my attention for well over a year. Stella and Penny were my first postpartum pet portrait commissions. I'll never turn down an oil painting, because oils are my absolute favorite medium to use. However, in addition to long drying times it was always difficult to figure out how I could paint without having a baby around (especially with oils & solvents all over the place). Not to mention, new mom brain screwed up my initial painting of Penny so bad, that I decided to start from scratch. The second one is so much better, I'm considering starting Stella over also. Fortunately, the lady who asked for them is a kind friend and has the patience of a saint. (Penny - WIP - below)

Penny- Total Painting Fail

Penny - WIP (2nd painting)