The creative journey of an artist inspired by animals and life by the sea

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

New Home

Today was one of those lucky days for an artist when you have a sale you aren't expecting!  I recently joined Etsy, an online selling gallery for artists and craftsmen.  I sold this little watercolor painting of a Shih Tzu to a collector in Virginia, whom I have never met.  It's always a great feeling to sell a painting, especially when I work on commission most of the time.  This little guy was just so cute, I had to paint him!  I find it difficult sometimes to balance what I want to paint for myself with my client's portrait requests.  I joined Etsy at the suggestion of a gallery owner, and it looks like it is proving to be a great outlet and I feel energized to add more new work to the online gallery.  

Saturday, December 10, 2011

A Dog for Christmas

As Christmas nears, I am usually painting away till the last minute.  This year, I didn't take on too many painting commissions so I could be a little more relaxed during the holidays.  I just delivered this watercolor portrait of "Nelson" to a wonderful couple who have also become great friends.  This little guy seemed to be full of spunk when I first went to meet him, but his owners later learned he was in pain due to cancer and not really himself.  He had to be put to sleep only a month after I first saw him.  When I showed them the finished painting, they both commented that they could almost see just a touch of that pain by the look in his eyes.  They were both so happy with it and I loved doing it for them.  Now I am planning on painting a little something for myself, the possibilities are endless!  I will keep it a surprise till my next post.