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Heinrich, Step I


"Heinrich," painting in process, 16" square commissioned dog portrait (I think Heinrich is a Belgian Malinoise, but I'll confirm that) done in acrylic on Ampersand Gessoboard. Inquiries may always come to me.

So after I put the final tweaks on Angi's painting (I'll update you with the final version once my clients approve), I started another good sized painting, one that will take me several days to complete. I'll share it with you as I progress.

Today I blocked in the first layer of color, concentrating on getting the placement of Heinrich smack in the center of the board, yet tilted just enough that the angle of his face and the line of his neck create an "x". The dual compositional trick of the "+" and the "x" securely anchor Heinrich's face and will underline his loyal gaze.

I'm not worried about having the exact right colors laid down, but I did start right from the get-go with directional brushwork mirroring the growth of his fur. This way every layer of paint will carry subtle detailing that creates the density and softness of his fur.

Tomorrow I'll redraw, measuring carefully and beginning Heinrich's likeness. I'll also work on setting my value ranges, creating a stronger sense of light and atmosphere.

On another note, the last holiday shipment of paintings and books went out today. In two batches. I won't be visiting the post office any more this week, but I'll see how I can get by. I bet some homemade cranberry gingerbread will quell my aching heart.

Thanks, as always, for looking at - and sharing - my artwork with your friends and family.
Kim
SHOP ORIGINALS & LIMITED EDITION GICLEES: at my Etsy shop
ORDER CUSTOMIZED NOTECARDS & REPRODUCTIONS: at Imagekind
COMMISSION A PET PORTRAIT: contact me (I've got a couple holiday spots left)
GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE: contact me
READING MATERIAL: Preview and order each of the Dog a Day books at the publisher's website: The First Year (2006-2007) and That's 14 in Dog Years (2008). If you would like your copy personalized, order them through me.
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