Pretty Girl



Pretty Girl 

This is my dog, Roxy and although she looks quite regal, she is in fact a goofball who gets her way by being extremely smart, joyful and loving.  After drawing and painting many pet portraits, I've been meaning to do a painting of my own pet and finally did!  In this portrait, it's fall and she's sitting in the shade of a mock pear tree in our front lawn and it looks like she's expecting a walk or some fun play.
Last month, I had very exciting time - the "Orchid" painting took 1st place in the San Diego Del Mar Fair in the acrylics Still Life/ Representational division. There was a very strong showing of many beautiful paintings there and it was such an honor to win this award and I'm still walking on Cloud Nine.      
Currently, I'm on an art break and gathering up supplies in anticipation of the workshop I'll be taking all next week.  The artist giving this month's workshop is Carla O'Connor and I'm so hoping to  learn how to make my portraits as magical as her incredible paintings.  I've heard from other artists that it's a very intensive workshop experience that will thoroughly challenge one - just what I want!  Some of the items we are to bring is a "failed" painting which horrifies me, and also a current painting as well as all the art supplies.  Along with watercolor/acrylics, I'll be using gouache, conte crayon, charcoal, and other drawing media in a combination thereof. I've only use a few mediums together, but not all listed. For the past week it's been pretty muggy here.  It feels more like Hot 'Lanta than San Diego and is not very conducive to painting much less anything else.  I can't imagine what it must be like for the rest of the US.  Next week, the humidity is suppose to ease off - perfect for painting!  Keep those iced drinks going and stay cool!