Erin Morey 03 Mar 2008

I think maybe you are going too dark. The lighter areas (like the tail) look really great and have that soft texture. Not sure if this is of much help, just my observation. Good luck with this piece.

v blair 03 Mar 2008

Hi Laura...when I am working on hair or fur I use one of two methods.I don't know what paper you are using but when using Bristol smooth or vellum I either use the negative method or the resist method.With the negative method I work one section at a time working dark shadow areas to light mid tones and highlights.Using the resist method I work one small area at a time and with short strokes lay in a layer of 2h followed by a layer of 2b over the 2h.I can then darken or lighten from there...being sure to remember my shadow and highlight areas.I hope this helps. vickie

Ann 05 Mar 2008

Hi Laura, what a sweet expression on his face. (so typical, the wonderful attitude of that breed)

This looks good to me so far. Just one thing I notice is that the rear feet don't appear to have much distance between them. (like they are right side by side) It might be better if you bring his far rear leg forward a bit, and do it lighter, to give some depth.

Hard to tell on the rest of him, until you are further along but it's looking good.

I hope you will post again with your progress. He's a sweetie! Ann

Laura Smith 11 May 2008

I know I started this thread months ago.. I actually put this one aside for a bit to do a few other commissions with birthday deadlines since the client for this one is in no hurry.

Thanks for your help and suggestions I did read them and worked to improve the portrait. I believe I managed to soften the longer hair I was concerned it was getting a little too ropey looking and I think I was over compensating on contrast to define the hairs.

Here is the almost finished portrait. I have to work on the snow a bit more... is there anything that kinda sticks out that you see could use improvement?

Thanks again for your earlier comments.

Linda Eades Blackburn 11 May 2008

Beautiful Laura

Barbara Giordano 13 May 2008

I think your dog looks great. You seem to capture the essence of this sweet golden.

Gail Caduff-Nash 14 May 2008

oh man, that's a gorgeous job you've done. if you're worried about harsh lines, you can always soften it in the computer or go over it with a white/light (pastel, pencil, ink) but it's really good and my favorite sort of dog. (despite the mutts i've had and adored) really excellent observation and an appealing gestural quality.

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