"PENSEES" - Start to Finish

I started very w/w, with the board at a slant. I don't usually do that, but I really liked how the paint flowed for the beginning of the portrait.

The hair and the post were started w/w.

Thicker color, painted wet on dry for the definition of the hair.

Work on her features and the shadowing.

Almost finished here. This photo was taken outside, and gives a much better idea of the true colors.

Just a bit of fussy detail work around the eyes.

In general, I am quite pleased with this portrait.  If I were to have done anything differently, it would be to do more w/w  of the shadows and pink coloring of the face. To my eye, it looks a bit patchy, especially around the nose. But all in all, I am happy with it. And I am LOVING doing portraits!!!

As always, your comments are most welcome.

PS - If anyone is interested in it, the portrait is 10 3/4 x 8 1/4 in., and for sale.

ANY IDEAS?????

The dogs were not impressed.

The above photos are of my set-up. I had two neighbors drop by. Norma brought her sister, niece and nephew, and their new pup. They asked about training tips for the pup, and mentioned they'd like a portrait when she is full-grown. She is only 9 weeks now ... hmmm.
There was absolutely NO response to the signs I put out on the street.

Stages of collection - increasing response, over time with training, of the horse to the rider's aides. The aides are your seat, legs and hands, basically, and how you balance and use them.

This is a graphic visualization of the weight-shift of a horse, over time with training.

A few people asked for a bit more clarification of "on the bit". I could go on forever about horses. I'll restrain myself. Essentially, the purpose of training is to get the horse to shift its engine, from front-wheel to back-end drive. All the powerful muscles are at the hind end, and through training, we encourage the horse to use and develop these muscles. It is gymnastics/yoga for horses.

As for the "show", it was disappointing. I am running out of sly and cunning plans to get people to notice my art. ANY SUGGESTIONS???

As always, your comments are most welcome.