Bailey is my first horse in this project of 101 Pet Portraits in 101
Days. I don't know much about Bailey, but the interesting thing about
her was the composition; to make it ok to paint her in the 6"x6" format
and keep it cohesive with the rest of the project. I solved the problem
in a fashion with pattern. There is a larger negative space in this
portrait than in most others, so I utilized pattern stamped into the
background to "break up" the vastness of this negative space. I very
much liked the end result. I have to say that the orangy color in the background is a bit darker than in this photo. We have a very grey day and it affects the photos. sigh...I have decided, by this time in the project
that it has has a profound effect on me...I will most likely continue to
paint in the brighter color fashion that is the fauvist tradition. As
you will see in the reference photo there is a strong light on top of
Bailey and I utilized that contrast, but added some awesome cerulean
blue/turquoise in a very light value, contrasted with the burnt oranges,
purples and reds in her coat. White is white with a little blue and
orange here and there. All in all a great fun painting to do! Bailey
comes ready to frame or she can sit on an easel.
I want to make mention again WHY I add texture to these paintings. Well, the first answer is I absolutely LOVE texture, even implied (not actual, but it looks like it) texture. I think it adds another dimension to the interesting"ness" of a painting, it also makes it clear it is original and not a print. It is part of what makes me a mixed media painter. I've loved the many aspects it affords other than JUST a painting...which is OK too...just not for me at this time in my career!
Here is Bailey in all her glory with his display ideas! Keep in mind the floater frames shown can be purchased through pictureframes.com. This particular easel was purchased at Hobby Lobby.
Gold Leaf Floater Frame
CFS3
Maple Floater Frame
CFS10
Black Floater Frame
CF1
HAPPY CREATING!
