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“Zoe,” 5” x 7”, Airedale portrait in acrylic on canvasboard, private collection.

I recently painted a larger than lifesize portrait of Zoe, and had a blast. The toughest part was choosing a pose that would anchor the composition and really communicate her laid back and casual approach to life. The choice was further complicated by the dozen caliber photos Zoe’s “person” provided.

Donna (Zoe’s Mom) started out years ago as a client, but has grown into a friend (I think that happens with a good number of my collectors!). She has regularly shared her sources of inspiration (check out Julian Merrow Smith’s paintings at http://www.shiftinglight.com/ ), and regularly brightened my days with her well written “streams of consciousness.” She gave me free rein when building the concept for Zoe’s painting. I did all sorts of schemes and tried out different sketches, ultimately choosing a relaxed lounge on a bunched up afghan, with the color and detail all concentrated in Zoe’s face.

But one small problem – even after delivering the painting, there were a couple of reference photos that still called to me. Loudly.

So I had to paint them. That’s what happened with today’s painting - it is a thank you of sorts. Any artist would be blessed to have a client and friend like Donna. Thank you, Donna!

And thanks to all of you who are making this dog-a-day journey so much darned fun.
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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