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Tribute (Augie's Collar), from the Tags, Toys & Treasures Series

"Tribute," from the "Tags, Toys & Treasures" series, 12" square, acrylic on canvasboard, still life depicting dog collar and tags, exquisitely framed, $749 to the first taker. Proceeds from the sale of this painting will be donated to my local shelter, the Oakland Pet Adoption Center. Inquiries may always come to ksantini@turtledovedesigns.com .

I have a similar painting hanging here in my studio. It's a favorite because it reminds me of what I had, what I have, and what will come to me. The proverbial circle of life.

Today's piece is a tribute to all who have crossed the bridge. I know the Dog-a-Day family lost quite a few over the holidays. I have friends and family who's lives are emptier now, too. My heart goes out to all of you.

This collar belonged to a friend's dog (thank you, Juliet). I tried to light it evenly, but you can actually see traces of my easel lamp along with a paler shadow cast from the window. I need to figure out a way to properly light still lifes - feel free to send me your suggestions (also, if you have objects you think I would be interested in painting, please email me! ksantini@turtledovedesigns.com).

And dang but it feels good to be painting again! I finally got to try out the fistful of new brushes I splurged on right before the holiday, and they are yummy (Utrecht mixed synthetics, brights, filberts and flats, along with a few oddballs). There's no substitute for good tools and materials. That's the honest truth.

Thanks, as always, for looking at and sharing my paintings with your friends and family.
See you tomorrow,
Kim

PS At the risk of sounding like a broken record, have you ordered your copy of Painting a Dog a Day - the First Year yet? or checked out the paintings for sale at my Etsy store? come on - what's holding you up?!
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Comments

  1. Patrice Erickson9:49 PM

    This is a great painting, and I like the shadows. Here's an idea: to light a still life get or construct a large box with one side removed. Sit it on a table with the open end facing you. Arrange the still life object(s) inside and illuminate with your light source. The top, bottom, and sides of the box should keep out other unwanted light from getting in. If you can't get the angle you want for your light you can cut a whole somewhere on the top or a side and point it in there.

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  2. Kimberly Kelly Santini9:04 PM

    I do have a box, and it works wonders for finger puppets and small toys, but it will not work for things that are hung on a wall. Boxes will only work for items smaller than the box. I should have specified that I have a very small studio, and am challenged in finding a flexible way to set up still lives without taking over the entire studio. :)

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