Domestic Cat ? On the Easel........

One more on the easel.  This new piece is an acrylic on board.  The background has been air brushed in and the cat is in the rough stage of base coat.  The painting is an 8" x 10" in size.  Generally, I do like to paint in the eyes first.  Giving some life to a piece helps me feel the subject I'm working on.   I'll post as this piece progresses. 


Happy Memorial Weekend to all.  I hope everyone is enjoying the warmer weather.  Sunny California has certainly seen it's share of clouds and rain this spring.

Black Bear - On the easel.............

I've chosen these two bear cubs for an 9" x 12" oil on canvas.  Here I'm just starting the base coat.  After the base coat dries I will begin defining more detail in a second coat.     


The reference for these juveniles were taken at a location in Idaho.     I've produced a number of paintings from this trip.  Who can resist babies! 


It would be lovely to take another trip up that way.
Early to mid June is a great time to capture all the babies.   


It was in Yellowstone that I captured some amazing baby photos of Elk, Moose...........  


Of course, it's also a bit nerve racking to attempt to hike with all the Mothers in protective mode.   I did little hiking that year!!!!!!!  Grizzlies were out in numbers looking for easy marks making hiking simply out of the question for me.   


I'll post the progress on this piece as it develops.       Oh and again, I'd like to thank all of those who have emailed or posted comments.   They are always a pleasure and welcome!

On the Easel..... Grey Squirrel in Silver Dollar Plants

Several years ago a virus plagued our community and almost wiped out an entire population of Grey Squirrel.  Also effected were song birds, Mountain Banded Tailed Pigeons and who knows what else.


It's been at least two years since having the pleasure of watching these little comedians grace my deck and yard.


About a month ago, I saw one little one dashing up our street and head for the woods.  I was delighted to see it.  I'm hoping there is a mate somewhere close by and spring has brought us new little ones.   I've not seen any since and the babies would certainly be out in full force by now.  They breed a couple of times a year.


The photo references for this painting came from my backyard.  I had hiked down to the yard for photos of the most amazing year in blooms from the Silver Dollar Plant.  Lovely flowers in mass.


Of course, it was not uncommon to find my little friends there as well burying peanuts.  They will do anything for a peanut!  Hence the poses that day offered up by these little guys and gals.   It was a great group of photos indeed.  


The background on this piece was scumbled in and the med-ground painted in.  I've yet to paint in the flowers.   Updates as it progresses...............