Mosca in the Doorway

9.5 x 10.5 - Acrylic on gessoed cardboard

I accomplished two goals with this little study: I did a value study for a commission, and managed to enter the DPW Challenge for (sigh) last week.  Very worthwhile effort.  I learned more than I expected to and I'm hoping the finished painting benefits.

Unrepentant Thief

SOLD

8" x 10" oil on Ampersand Gessobord

Minor adjustments captured this rascal in his shameless efforts.  I've moved on to other subjects, but I'd like to revisit raccoons.  They're captivating - even if they are mean!  

I'm attempting some of the weekly and monthly challenges issued by the DailyPainter websites.  If you're a burgeoning artist, check them out.  The challenge on DPW is a learning experience, and quite helpful. The process exposes you to other artists who inspire with their composition skills, palettes, and brushwork.

http://www.dailypaintworks.com/Challenges

http://virtualpaintout.blogspot.com/

Daylight Thieving

Raccoons are notorious opportunists, so when I was lucky enough to catch one in the act outside a local house, I grabbed the camera.  I'm trying to master values, so I changed this painting to black and white to see what needed adjustment.  I'm generally happy with the coloration and composition, but could see it still needed some tweaking.  Although his face looks stark white - it isn't, and the shadows along the doorway aren't quite dark enough. The pile of food looks like it's perched in a lump.  I'll be tackling those spots today, and will repost as this comes along.

Mudslide

SOLD

Acrylic on 16" x 20" stretched canvas

A request for a painting led to weeks and weeks of frustration because I had no good photographic information for his body - just his little face.  This was done on a 16" x 20" canvas and the dog was a tiny bit larger than lifesize.  This painting went through many iterations, but it was finally delivered to Muddy's Mom and Dad last week.

Nider the Soulful

SOLD

8 x 10" acrylic on panel board

Providence's foster mom decided her husband's dog Nider, needed a spot on their wall too. I fell in love with him during the painting process; those dark gentle eyes....who wouldn't?

Miss Providence

SOLD

8 x 10" acrylic on panel board

This girl had a compelling direct gaze and an unusual multi-colored coat..and she was being fostered in Texas. Texas has over 900 listed rescues and shelters and is an awful place for any but the youngest and most attractive dogs to find homes. Providence, nicknamed Vinnie, found her forever home in April.

Fred the Confident

12 x 16 acrylic on canvas panel

I spied this regal fellow on the web years ago and saved his photo. He's the first Cairn I painted and I'm reluctant to let go of the painting. But if his owner found me - I would!  Do you know Fred's owner?