Lions and Tigers and Bears (and leopards and dogs), Oh My!

Snow Leopards, in this case.  Several years ago, I took a photograph of a Snow Leopard that I really liked.  I have painted several renditions of it, none of which I will post here, for fear of being laughed right off of Blogger.  Hopefully I've learned a thing or two since then, so I'll make another attempt, this time publicly.  Come on along and see how this turns out.

Here's the initial sketch.  It's a direct transfer onto black gessoed hardboard.  I was trying to outline large value changes in what was a mass of small value changes.  It was like trying to outline single drops of water in an ocean.  Yes, I know it looks like I threw spaghetti onto a black background.  There's a Snow leopard in there somewhere....trust me.

Snows are absolutely beautiful cats, covered in lush, oh-so-soft warm grey fur.  Grey?  Bah!  I'm shooting for an analogous complementary color scheme, with burnt sienna on one side, and a range from purple to blue to teal on the other.


I'd like to complete two paintings before the party on the 16th.  Two things are going to make that goal a little hard to accomplish.  One is a malevolent little cold virus that's making my head feel like a brick.  I'm trying desparately not to cough while I'm painting, lest the leopard develop stripes instead of it's usual spots.  You should probably disinfect your computer screen after reading this.

The second thing is, well, breaking my heart.  My beautiful, beloved ten-year old English Shepherd, Kieran, had to undergo spinal surgery.  She's coming home today, and will require constant care.  Every inch of our tile and hardwood floors are now covered with carpet remnants, throw rugs and spare bath mats so she will be able to get around, with assistance, without having her rear legs slide out from under her.  The next six weeks will determine whether she is able to fully recover.

If the only thing I accomplish in the next two weeks is helping her start to walk again, I will be overjoyed.  Some things in life are just more important.  Please send some hopes and good doggie wishes, willya?  We all would appreciate it.

My Muse is fluffing up the dog beds.  To mobility, and beyond!