Spent the week working on my Christmas list. Then two days in Phoenix celebrating early with friends from out-of-town. I finally worked up to courage to paint these pet portraits. I had planned on working in watercolor, but ultimately decided to use acrylics. I worked from photos. There was a lot of guessing on Tasha, most of her facial features were lost in solid black.

I am very pleased with how they turned out. Both recipients were very happy. Kyra, above, turned out better. I don’t feel I was as successful with Tasha. The pose was more difficult for me to convey. The noses know… they could have been better. Still, I think they work.

I experimented, and used watercolor on these next two canvases. I knew if it didn’t work, I could easily wipe them clean and start over. I wanted the colors to mix and mingle, and have that washy look. The deep sides really highlight the layers of transparent color. Unfortunately, I forgot to get photos of them.

When the background had dried, I used a spray sealer. Light coats, so the watercolor would not activate again. The words were applied in acrylic, outlined in pen, and sealed once more. They really look good in person. Shades of gorgeous indigo. And “Love” has the look of an old tapestry. A nice effect of the canvas texture!