From the two reference photos I have of Skjonn, I had to determine, or rather decide, from which direction the sun was shining on her. The angles in the photos are not the same, but very close, which impacts the location of the highlights on this wonderful black Labrador. I chose the reference photo where the sun is not directly coming from above her because that direct light gives off too many highlights and does not allow for a good definition of her head and her personality.
After I transferred Skjonn’s sketch onto pastel paper and taped the paper to a board, I began blocking in larger areas of the painting with color. As I have done in previous pet portraits, I used warmer colors for the areas where the light is hitting Skjonn; this applies to the the background sections as well. Cooler colors (magenta, purple and blue) were applied for the shadow areas. It was important to remember that this scene takes place during the summer and that she reflects that season in her personality!
First layer of pastel applied
To see a larger view of this stage of the painting, just click it.
You are allowed to laugh at her nose, because it does look similar to a pig’s snout, but have no fear, this will be corrected! 🙂
Any questions before I continue to the next phase?
…to be continued.
As Joe commented, this is the weird phase, but he can see his Angel Dog!
Joe, I know Skjonn looks a bit strange at this stage and she will for a little longer, but I have Mozart playing and I know she will be happy at the end!