Here is a painting of a few of the sunbathers we found on the Monterey Peninsula in California last summer. These harbor seals were so relaxed and obviously comfortable with their torpedo shaped bodies.
This past winter's weather with multiple blizzards found me digging through photo albums for painting ideas. I found these "gals" to be cooperative models. (I am assuming they are gals).
I started this painting with a monochromatic value study of the rock formation. I wanted to capture the texture of the rocks and also the solidity of them. I built up several layers of paint using a palette knife, adding color and texture. I worked on the rocks exclusively for a number of sessions leaving the seals sketched in. When I finally got around to the seals, I switched to a paintbrush. Unfortunately, I think they look a little "thin" in comparison to the rocks. I wish I could have continued to build upon them, but had to let them dry off for my March show. I did post the actual photo upon my return from California last summer. You might find it if you dig around through my labels. I wasn't going for exactitude. I never do when I paint. So don't judge me! I believe the colors on the rocks are largely invented to separate the seal gray from the rock gray!
14 comments:
It is a very nice painting. You did a good job of separating them from the rocks. It is well done.
Delightful painting Neetzy! You've really captured the beauty and spirit of these bathing beauties.
Now that's an unusual painting! Guaranteed you'll have some comments on that one!
BTW I like it!
Wonderful! I really like the colors you used.
Thanks L.D. It was a challenge.
Katie, Thanks. They were adorable critters. My older daughter is a seal freak.
Jeannette, I hope I get some comments! Thanks.
Willow, The rocks came out quite colorful didn't they?
i love the colors, to me the rocks look warm and the seals cold-but getting warmed by the rocks.
O Brown, you've got it!
magnificent!
Glorious, Neetzy.
You've really captured the contrast between the solidity of the rocks and the soft, flabbiness of the seals.
I don't think I've ever seen such happy and relaxed creatures.
Jesson and Ray Ann,
Wow thanks! Thanks for visiting!
Dive, I love the soft flabbiness of the seals. I can so relate! I want to be one of these relaxed and happy animals!
Neetzy, when you get to my age you'll find soft flabbiness is just about all we've got, so it's a good thing that we find it attractive.
Dive,
I am your age (okay, maybe you have one year on me).
I love it! You so perfectly captured the essence of relaxed seals. And I love the colors of the rocks.
Nancy,
Thanks. I wish I could relax like that!
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