Library Cat . .. almost finished!

Library Cat part 6

Ah, now the fun starts! I've gotten a good start on the cat's face. Below is the photo that I am using for reference.

Library Cat part 5

Library Cat - next step

Library Cat part 4

The Library Cat is back on the easel - got the books in the background painted for the most part.

Library Cat part 3

Now I've got the cat just about where I want him. I have spent FAR too long playing with this.

Cat in the Library on the Easel

Now there's a convoluted description. I've been working on the cat in the library painting.

New Anthropomorphic Painting

I thought I'd bring you along on the journey from idea to finished painting. I had a patron contact me to create a memorial portrait of her cat, Max. She wanted a dark, period piece with him at a library table/desk since he loved to sit on books :)

I don't usually go through this much preparation for a painting, but this is a very elaborate portrait - and I want to make sure that I work out any possible conflicts before I get started.

The first step is to get a 'feel' for the commission. I did this with a color study of the basic idea. This is not set in stone, and I will make a lot of changes to it as I refine the ideas.

Color Study
Goauche on Paper
7" x 9"

After discussing the color study with her,

Ringo and his Wife Bella . . . . Mastiff Masterpiece Finished!

Mastiff Masterpiece Finished!

18" x 24"
Oil on Canvas
Private Commission