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I haven’t ever painted a llaso before, so today I was testing new waters. I know that habitually I space eyes like they might appear on a spaniel, and tried to pay careful attention to the actual shape of her skull. Toys and smaller breeds have a squatter skull, and that needs to be taken into consideration from the very beginning. Otherwise, the fur will not look correct, the eyes will be too close together, and the animal’s likeness will never appear.

I used very loose brushwork for all the areas except her face, where I concentrated the most detail and color around her eyes and nose. This suggests the flowing hair and fringes without overwhelming her expression.

“Rosie (Llasa Apso Study),” 6x8, acrylic dog portrait on canvasboard, private collection (thank you!).

Rosie’s portrait was a commissioned piece – your dog can be part of the dog-a-day project, too. Simply send photos to me digitally (ksantini@turtledovedesigns.com) or via snail mail (they will be returned! 346 N Anderson, Lake Orion, MI 48362). I’ll confirm receipt with you and let you know what my calendar looks like.

And don’t forget – next week is Kentucky Derby Week (featuring horses), and the following week will be my Shelter and Rescue Week.

Thanks, as always, for looking.
And for sharing these paintings with your friends and family,
Kim


Kimberly Kelly Santini
http://www.turtledovedesigns.com/
distinctive pet portraits
& 4-legged paintings

http://www.paintingadogaday.com/
come. sit. stay.
enjoy the art.

Founding member of the Canine Art Guild
http://www.canineartguild.com/
the gateway to canine art on the web
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