I painted the rest of Scout's body today but I need to adjust the coloring. It seems I have reversed the shading of the red spots. He should be darker near his chest and have lighter red patches on his rear.

I am going to try to a "detailed" background. Not a complicated subject but a very elaborate abstract with definate brush strokes. Just like the handleing of scout's coat in this picture, but primarily in greens and blues.

This is Scout. He lives outside & the sun has highlighted his fur giving him a very unique coat. He is the alpha-male of his cat family and I think he is in the mafia as well... but don't let his intense gaze scare you off, he can be very affectionate.

I have spent the last few days finishing that portrait of Caplin Rous, the CAPYBARA. (See post below) His site can be found here: Capybara Madness. This was also my first "human" portrait so I took more pictures to document the development of her face. I think it is a pretty cool progression. I just finished the painting, and the wet paint distorts the final photo, but I was too excited not to put it up. right. now. However, a better image will be coming soon!

Thank you Caplin's family and friends for all your enthusiam and kind words. I should have know Caplin would only associate with such nice people. :D

I worked on the shadows on the couch and am now satisfied with the portrait. It was a lot of fun to work on.

I also started one of two portraits for Caplin Rous, the world's most famous CAPYBARA! You can visit his blog at Capybara Madness. I selected this reference photograph for several reasons:
1) Caplin and his owner look so genuinely happy, it makes me happy :D
2) I have never painted a large oil portrait of a person before
3) The movement and reflection on the water will be cool to paint
4) As a compostion, it is very stong
5) Did I mention how cute it is?

I started the painted sketch. It's rough, but it always develops into more as you work. And thats why I love painting.

Oil on Canvas
22" x 28"

This portrait was interesting because both dogs have white fur. I used texture and subtle undertones to clearly distinguish each dog. The chair was a fun background to tackle as well.