I have had a BAD month, ending up in emergency twice within a week. I had a very miserable flu that would not leave me alone. And then yesterday. I thought I would do something constructive, and clean the eaves troughs. I was almost done, when the ladder decided to lose its grip, and I rode it in slow motion to the ground. Basically, I was all right, just shaken up, but I did need twenty stitches in my right shin. Ah, well ... never a dull moment.
Needless to say, I had NOT felt like painting. I just started today, after not doing any art for a month. I am starting a large commission for some friends, of a yellow lab. But I am doing the smart thing, and starting with at least one color study before I tackle the full size. Below are photos of Carmella, and the small study I did today. I would very much appreciate some brutally honest criticism.
Dear Katryn, good nothing more happened when the ladder fell, but 20 stitches are still 20 stitches! Luckily you seem to take things quite relaxed...but take care:-)
ReplyDeleteThe painting of the lab is great, color and expression of the eyes...perfect, the only thing I can say is that maybe the distance between the eyes is just a slight bit too big. Hugs
Shadows! If you deepen them they will give more contour and character. There isn't one on or under the tongue.. and the white in black? The lighter area I would think is gum, so should be a shadowy pink.
ReplyDeleteThe colouring of the lab itself is superb.. in my opinion, just need to beef up the shadow.
And sorry you've been in the wars.. 20 stitches? You make sure you rest up *hugs*
I think you're doing a wonderful job! I love the nose. Poor you, take it easy!
ReplyDeleteI think you have made a good start on the painting. I can't wait to see it finished. Hope things go better for you from here on...too bad you have had a bad month. Feel better! :-)
ReplyDeleteKathryn, glad you are back painting, and healing!
ReplyDeleteI am loving this portrait study, love how you brought out her eyes, love when a portrait focuses on the eyes of the dog.
Only thought is to deepen the shadow of the tongue so that the focus stays on those amazingly warm lab eyes!
Will you bring in a background color or leave it white? Love the color choices for her, they are perfect.
Kathryn, I'd say you are off to a great start with this. Glad you didn't break your painting arm. Isn't it weird how it all looks like it's happening in slow motion?
ReplyDelete