Golden retrieiver/ wip Finished!

[E-J]

I have finally begun work on my dog commission!

You may recall how I struggled for a week to put together a full body pose with decent head shot from the photos my client sent me ... before offering to paint a head-only portrait, which he agreed to.

Here's my underdrawing and background. I basically finger-painted with the background blues, putting them down with short strokes and blending them using sort of diagonal/circular movements.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/02-Dec-2005/13865-wip0.jpg

Dark purple goes on next, and then some dark and reddish browns. I've had to use a flash - none of the paler tints are as bright as they appear here.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/02-Dec-2005/13865-wip1.jpg

For each "unrealistic" fur colour I use, such as purple or blue, I will find a more realistically doggy tint (a brown or an ochre) of equivalent value which I can blend into and stroke on top of it, leaving the more fanciful colours showing through for interest.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/02-Dec-2005/13865-wip2.jpg

I blend all of my dark-to-mid values with fingers to form a base for the mid-to-light tones, which I'll tackle next. That's fine for the initial layers, but the only blending I'll do from now on will be of one pastel into another.

In the main ref photo I'm using, the eyes, nose and mouth are too black for any detail to be discerned, but I've got other refs which should help me, including one of a nose, kindly provided by LorraineG!

Thanks for looking in :)

[E-J]

How rude of me not to mention that this is about 12x12" on burgundy Art Spectrum (it's a pleasure to be using it again - this is my favourite surface!).

[HarvestMoon]

E-J- it looks wonderful- and I should have thought the first time to try to get a shot of the golden next door- but she is usually either furiously barking at us or has a ball in her mouth.... none of their animals ever cooperates with my camera darn it!!

[bjcpaints]

He is looking great! I'll check back to see your progress. Thanks for sharing your technique with the background and colors!
Barbara

[E-J]

Thanks purples (like your new avatar, by the way ... it's very "you"!) and Barbara. When you work in layers, there doesn't seem to be anything very exciting to share for quite a while - but things should pick up when I get to the paler layers!

[John B]

This is going to be a stunner EJ, it will be interesting to see how you build it up.

John

[PeggyB]

EJ this is a wonderful start - thanks for sharing yor process. As one who's lived with Goldens everysince I was two years old, I can see you've already gotten the essence of this dog very nicely. He looks very "Old Golden Nobel". Your client should be happy with all you've gone through to satisfy his need. I'm looking forward to seeing the final painting.

Purples - I had to laugh at your attempts to get photos of the neighbor's golden - barking (to get your attention of course!) or with a ball in the mouth is oh so typical of the breed! I have two now - my 7 1/2 year old girl is extremely well trained and will cooperate with the camera (but she doesn't look anything like this dog) and the other is a 7 month old "pup" of 68 pounds who is learning, but still a puppy so I have to sneak up on him with the camera. I'm hoping to get a good one of them to use at Christmas, but not so sure it will work this year because weh I sit the two of them together, the pup keeps turning his head to play with his sister!

Peggy

[Orchidacea]

LOL at Peggy's puppy problems.

E-J, this is going to be gorgeous! I'm in awe of your ability to capture the dog's beauty and nobility even in your very earliest layers. I hope I can do that someday!

[Beanie]

E-J ... I am so impressed, and its lovely of you to demonstrate your technique for us. I love working on the burgundy AS too .... my next best colour after the brick red one.

I am not going to eulogise although I want to!!!! Will be watching in awe though.

[KJSCL]

E-J, this is wonderful so far. I really like your use of blues and purples as underpainting, the lights you apply next will really shine.

I'm glad you were able to come to terms with your client with just going with a head shot. I think it'll turn out much more regal painting than the full body photo you originally posted. Can't wait to see the next steps.

[Paula Ford]

E-J,

It is always a treat to see your work! This is beautiful already!

Pulling up chair waiting in anticipation.

Paula

[Nancy Leone]

This is wonderful already, E.J.
I'm sure they will be thrilled.

[K Taylor-Green]

All I can say is, WOW! Thanks for sharing the process you use.

[E-J]

It's a slow process ...

Does anyone else find they work MUCH more slowly when it's a commission? When I'm painting for myself, I can happily finish a picture at one or two sittings. With a commission, I decide on one particular thing I need to achieve in a painting session, and when I think that's done, I sit back and go "Phew!" and leave the next hurdle for another day.

Everything's still quite low-key at this stage. I went over him with two mid-to-light values (a purplish-grey and a goldy-ochre) and decided to blend this layer too, as I realised I should go lighter with the underpainting. Fortunately the Colourfix will allow me to keep blending colours in or picking them off with a brush until I reach the not-so-scary stage where I feel happy putting down the paler tints and leaving them alone!! Not sure when that will be!

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/03-Dec-2005/13865-wip3.jpg

[binkie]

Don't know how I missed this, EJ. Your golden is incredibly fantastic!!!! It has so much drama to it. I love it. Thanks so much for sharing the various steps with us. I'll be waiting to see more of your technique.

binkie

[Bhavana Vijay]

wow!i really am in awe.i can never paint something like this.i thought it was done when i saw the very first picture, and then i scrolled down and it got better and better.i cant wait to see the final painting.

[Kristrotter]

Hi EJ, I saw your name and had to check it out! I love it....I love the deeper colors and you have really captured a sweetness in this dog's dispostion. As always...a pleasure to look at your work! Thanks for showing us the progression...it is wonderful!:clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:

[momof6]

This is really coming along beautifully! You've already captured a beautiful expression in this golden's face. Can't wait for the finish!

[Rose Baggs]

Looking great. You've done a wonderful job so far...Can't wait to see the finished piece.

[E-J]

You are all very kind.

I had a hideous time with this on Saturday ... wasted perhaps 4.5 hrs fiddling around, repeatedly brushing off what I'd put down. I'm back on track now, though!

This is the "loose" layer, which establishes the values and main colours, though not the palest ones just yet. Working quite loosely will allow me to work dark-into-light or light-into-dark, whatever's needed, without creating mud, when I get into my "tidying up/blending" layer.

The Uploader isn't working for me today but I hope my attachment is visible! The painting looks nowhere near as orangey as this, but for some reason technology's got it in for me today and this is as accurate as I can get it.

EDIT: Oh well ... the attachment feature isn't playing ball either, it seems. Grrr. Sorry! I'll try posting again later.

[Mikki Petersen]

Well, pooh! I'm very sure from the progress images that what you are having difficulty posting now is stunning. Our Golden, Hunny, whined at the image ont he screen so I guess that says it all, lol.

Mikki

[PeggyB]

Mikki do you have a golden that sees images too? My Libby watches TV, and if I point at the monitor she will look and respond too. She even has favorite commericials that we've never been able tof igure out what attracts her attention because they don't all have animals in them. On the other hand, our youngster Sonny just looks at her in confusion if she barks at the TV (usually because some dog is misbehaving in her opinion!)

Sure wish the image uploader was working properly today. I can hardly wait to see your painting progress EJ.
Peggy

[Nicoclaus]

Looks wonderful! Can't wait to see the final one;)

[E-J]

This is what I was trying to post 2 days ago!

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/07-Dec-2005/13865-wip5.jpg

[meowmeow]

Oh wow! Just gorgeous, EJ! I don't do commissions because the thought makes me nervous so I am really impressed...I know they will love this!

Our Golden, Hunny, whined at the image ont he screen so I guess that says it all, lol. :lol Mikki! But, then again, it's a darn good Golden!

Sandy

[E-J]

Hello Sandy! Yep, I'd have to agree with you there: commissions are nerve-wracking ... at least, this one is!

I sent my client a progress shot and he was concerned that the dog's coat isn't nearly pale enough. I explained that I work in layers, from dark to light. I'm going over him with a pale tint now, and blending with a light brownish-gold. There's one paler layer still to do ... and sooooo much else!

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/07-Dec-2005/13865-wip6_detail.jpg

[E-J]

Oh yes ... I forgot to share this with you ...

I was about 30 mins into my painting session today when I STUPIDLY tried to balance something on top of my pastel box/tripod setup without really looking. I failed to notice that it was too heavy and the whole box was about to topple over.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/07-Dec-2005/13865-disaster.jpg

ALL of my pastels, on the floor - some of them (the soft ones, Unisons and Schminkes) in bits. You can imagine what came out of my mouth at that point. It took me an hour and 45 mins to pick them all up, clean them and put the salvageable pieces back in the box. Fortunately, only a very few were smashed beyond use. :rolleyes:

[meowmeow]

:( Ouch! That hurts just to look....I think we have all been there though. I'm glad you didn't lose much in the mess. How frustrating!

The coat is coming along wonderfully....he'll get there. If that was his only complaint you are doing great since we all understand about working toward the lighter color. You'll get there...it will be well worth it too!


Sandy

[Dark_Shades]

ohhhhhhhhh EJ....... your pastels look like mine do every day lol ......

this is coming along lovely, knew it would........ I remember your other one you did.... superb! ...... glad to see the lighter colours coming in now

They will love it, no worries

[*Marina*]

Oh dear E-J, I know how you must have felt. But your dog is coming along beautifully!

[Nicoclaus]

:( Ouch! That hurts just to look....I think we have all been there though. I'm glad you didn't lose much in the mess. How frustrating!

The coat is coming along wonderfully....he'll get there. If that was his only complaint you are doing great since we all understand about working toward the lighter color. You'll get there...it will be well worth it too!


Sandy

Ditto that:)

[Orchidacea]

oh, your poor pastels! I've come close to doing that a number of times. The dog is looking wonderful!

[E-J]

My latest progress pic.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/09-Dec-2005/13865-wip7.jpg

I ended up reworking the body to try and simplify it. Ha! Sometimes you hit a block and no amount of painting, brushing off, re-painting and brushing off again will get you past it, simply because every mark you make is out of frustration. So, EIGHT HOURS of frustration later, I decided to put it aside till today ... and after a further three hours' work this afternoon, I think I'm finally where I need to be in order to start thinking about putting in my palest layer.

My fear is that the client will want me to rework the whole thing to lighten the fur even more (their dog was very, very pale). I think there will be a limit to what I can achieve in that respect. Besides the fact that I am used to creating strong contrasts in my paintings, I don't think the body area, which I've reworked so many times, will accept much more pastel. We'll see.

This is turning into THE single most stressful painting experience I've ever had!

[KJSCL]

You've done an excellent job, this is turning out beautifully. It's just too bad it's been such a frustrating experience. Hang in there!

[CindyW]

E-J, this is really lovely!!!
I am so hoping the client doesn't need it lighter because it's just beautiful as it is. With the lightest layer you're going to apply, it must be close to the client's expectations.
Great job!
Cindy

[PeggyB]

E-J my golden Libby concurs with the opinion of others. She gave this picture a good look and tail wag. I wonder if it reminds her of her dearly departed brother Sam - it does look a bit like him. However, you'll appreciate the fact that both Libby and Sam are the darker carmel color with red/gold highlights!

Good job!

Peggy

[Beanie]

E-J, you are doing a wonderful job on this and, in spite of all the frustrations you are feeling, it is coming together beautifully. :clap: :clap: I admire you very much for taking on commissions .... I don't think I could take the strain! And reading your posts here makes me surer than ever!

After all your ups and downs with it, and dropping your pastels to boot, you are now on the home stretch at last! It is really lovely work and well worth all the time and care you have put into it. :clap: :clap:

[talisman]

This is a wonderful WIP and I’m sorry you have been so frustrated. The pastel catastrophe must have been just about the finial straw. I’m glad you have persevered on the Golden Retriever I’m sure you final layers will make it great for the owners. Even though their dog was lighter colored Golden, I think the heart and love really show in his eyes in your artwork and I’m certain they will adore him!

[Nicoclaus]

E-J, this is really lovely!!!
I am so hoping the client doesn't need it lighter because it's just beautiful as it is. With the lightest layer you're going to apply, it must be close to the client's expectations.
Great job!
Cindy

I agree:)

[doe]

Oh EJ - what a mess you made of your pastels!

The Golden is coming along nicely though. He's quite handsome and you've definitely captured his look. When I've taken on commissions though I don't share progress with the client. That's why I give them the option to refuse the painting and it keeps them out of my way. You are the artist and if he didn't like your work he wouldn't have commissioned you. Get the client out of your head and just let the dog stay in your head. Don't mean to be preachy - you're a good pastelist EJ - now pick up those pastels and put in the finishing touches - the way YOU see it!:)

[binkie]

EJ, how frustrating to have your pastels spill on the floor and a fussy client to boot.

Your pastel is superb! I'm sure your client will love it when it's finished.

binkie

[E-J]

When I've taken on commissions though I don't share progress with the client. That's why I give them the option to refuse the painting and it keeps them out of my way. You are the artist and if he didn't like your work he wouldn't have commissioned you. Get the client out of your head and just let the dog stay in your head. Don't mean to be preachy - you're a good pastelist EJ - now pick up those pastels and put in the finishing touches - the way YOU see it!

Hello doe! This first experience with a client who's not also a friend is making me realise something about commissions: they have very little to do with creativity. What some people really want is the photo they never took.

My client will effectively have the option to refuse the painting because I didn't take a deposit, but with the amount of work that's going into this (and the fact that I don't have a regular income anymore) that would be a depressing outcome! Money, of course, being the other less-than-artistic motivation behind the painting ...

Where is the art in all of this?

Ah well. Let's just hope he likes it :)

[doe]

Yes, the commissioned piece is definitely different because you need to please the client but what I was saying is that the client will be pleased because he chose you, whose style already pleases him.

The commemorative dog portrait is a special keepsake and the art is in the way you've captured that particular dog and in the process. If you let the client in on the creative process though it can be disturbing. Once I had one where the client kept coming over to see how things were going and telling me constantly that this that and the other thing was wrong and he wanted her ear just so. It turned out to be the crappiest work I've ever done which is why I have the no meddling rule. Also, because I don't share my progress, other than telling them that everything is going along just fine, I do worry that they will be happy with what I've come up with. However, it adds an element of surprise and mystery to fly solo like this. Take in what they say and want and using your judgement, incorporate what makes sense to you. And what I'm telling you is that he won't refuse the painting. I've never had anyone refuse a painting. If you insist on giving him progress shots though, just remember that he doesn't know how to paint and you need to keep his comments out of your head and do what you know is best.

In the end it's rewarding to be paid! It gives you validation as an artist and there is nothing wrong with that. It's also very rewarding to turn over the finished product and see the reaction of the client.

I hope I'm being helpful and just don't want you to be discouraged - it's fun just a bit more stressful than painting for yourself.

[E-J]

I hope I'm being helpful and just don't want you to be discouraged - it's fun just a bit more stressful than painting for yourself.

Very helpful, doe - thank you for your thoughtful post.

[Merethe T]

Beautiful piece - you've really got the "golden look", love the eyes, and the colors works for me. Look forward to see this finished, it will be great!

[cascadeoflove]

E-J this is wonderful. can you add just two little strokes or dots to show shine/wetness above the nostrils? that will make the portrait more impressive.

Just a suggestion.

Regards

[E-J]

E-J this is wonderful. can you add just two little strokes or dots to show shine/wetness above the nostrils? that will make the portrait more impressive.

Hello there - thanks for looking. I haven't actually got to work properly on the nose yet :) but will bear your suggestion in mind when I do.

[lawsportraits]

Hi EJ,

I took a look at your web site and that portrait of Benjer is delicious!

This one is coming along just fine, I wouldn't worry too much. Looks like you have passed through the awkward, doubtful, ready to toss in the garbage stage, now you can coast along on cruise control.

I agree with the comments made earlier, having the client perched on your shoulder only aggravates the situation. The expectation to achieve likeness becomes a tremendous burden.

The only input you need from the client is in the beginning, before you even begin the prelim drawing. If I haven't met the animal I like to engage the client in a discussion about their animal, this allows me to gain insight into the character of my subjects. Often times clients will send disks filled with photos. The photos will span the entire life of the animal, from the puppy years through to the final days, they become a narrative for me. After the initial input from the client, the rest is up to me.

Anyway, I'm looking forward to seeing the final piece.

Heather

[E-J]

Hi Heather ... thanks. "Cruise control" isn't how I'd describe my current state of stress and sleeplessness! It's great that you have chatty clients with lots and lots of photos.

I am completely stuck now, and feeling despondent about this. I still need to:

- add some blond highlights to his right ear
- reshape his nostrils, esp. the left one
- work on his eyes
- do something about the body. The highlight layer is sitting unnaturally on his shoulders, but if I tone those down I'm afraid the body will be too dark all over. The photo I'm working from is largely in shadow and doesn't have much definition, and I have compensated for the shadows' purple colour cast with reddish browns. I'm now struggling to achieve a "blond" look which will satisfy the client.
- "tidy up" the painting. The background is dusty and needs freshening up.

I have this sinking feeling that he's still not going to be pale enough after this, but I can't really do anything more to it without losing what I've built up already. Overworking is one of those things you can't always see on the screen.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/12-Dec-2005/13865-wip8.jpg

Thanks for your patience, those of you who are still looking in! Any suggestions gratefully received.

[Beanie]

E-J ... for what its worth i think that you shouldn't be half-killing yourself over this. What you have so far is wonderful for those of us looking on.

I believe that you should now show the client what you have and see their reaction .... if they are not happy (and they need stringing up if they aren't, IMO :evil: ) THEN that is probably the time to decide whether to go on or to walk away. Stop punishing yourself - you have worked so hard and really! what do these people want? .... are they paying you in millions?

Its a lovely painting by any standard. You have done your best to get a likeness ... and you didn't even know the mutt, after all! :clap: :clap: :clap:

Just get your lightest layer down on his coat and go for it!!!!!

Chin up xx

[Orchidacea]

I have to echo Lesly here...stop killing yourself over this! I work in retail, selling custom furniture, so I know about picky customers, and some of them will NEVER be happy. It has nothing to do with the product, and everything to do with their temperament.

On the other hand, amny times the customers will be perfectly happy with what I consider an inferior piece, simply because I've told them it's an exceptional piece and I'm really ahppy with it. The power of suggestion works wonders.

Either way, you can only do so much. You've created a lovely painting from an absolutely crap reference--you should be pleased!

[E-J]

Lesly and Kimberly, thank you for that much-needed kick up the backside!! Thanks, too, for your kind words. I have been getting myself in a right old state about this painting but hopefully the imagined rejection is mostly in my mind! I will put the finishing touches to him and let the client see ... If he likes, he likes. If not, it will be a sizeable financial "ouch" but so be it. I am proud of what I've done.

Thanks for enduring my whining!! :)

[E-J]

THANK YOU again for your encouragement. I needed to take a walk and put the painting out of my mind for a while.

I will probably tweak the shine in his eyes just a tiny bit, but he's essentially there now. I'm about to mail the finish to my client and take a day off while I wait for his response.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/12-Dec-2005/13865-jason_finished.jpg

[K Taylor-Green]

Absolutely wonderful, E-J!

[E-J]

Thanks Kate (and for amending the thread title for me) :)

[KJSCL]

It turned out beautifully. Excellent work.

[*Marina*]

Beautiful dog. Let's hope your client will like it as well. I really admire your perseverance (spelling?)

[dexonsbabe]

Just wonderful, E-J!

[Orchidacea]

Beautiful!! I've just noticed the colors in the nose--they're wonderful.

So glad you came to your senses :). If you project satisfied, proud energy, the client is very likely to feel the same way!

[DrBrad]

Love it!

[Kathryn Wilson]

Just discovered this thread - rest easy in knowing that you've done a beautiful job on this. Let us know when the client gets back to you - he should be thrilled with it.

[momof6]

Lovely soft colours and an impressive likeness of this noble looking dog!

[E-J]

Glad you all like it. I've heard back from my client. He says it is "fine". But not pale enough.

I honestly don't know if I can do anything about that. May have to say no and accept that I've wasted a lot of time and energy for absolutely no gain!

[LorraineG]

Hi E-J,

You have DEFINATELY got the likeness spot on. I have had another look at your reference photo and I think if you add pale warm grey for the shadows e.g the right hand side of the forehead and face. A pale mouse grey not a blue grey, then go in with some white here and there it will lighten it a lot. I am not very good at explaining what I mean. Can you post the reference photo again so it will show what I mean. It is just a suggestion, so ignore me if you want :)

[E-J]

Hi Lorraine! I guess if I do that, I will need to add the pale warm grey to ALL the shadows, including the body ... and I'm not sure the body in particular will take any more pastel without looking "icky". Wouldn't I then have to rework the entire painting to get the greyishness all over the coat? I'm very worried about overworking. I could probably add a touch of white to the lightest areas, but they're quite saturated already, as I wanted that "tactile" look. Anyone here ever used Tippex (Wite-Out) on a pastel painting?? ;)

Philosophical sidenote: It's quite demoralising when something you've REALLY worked hard on is dismissed as "fine". I think the lack of emotional response all along has been feeding into my feelings about the painting, and making me prone to these defeatist moments.

[lawsportraits]

Hi EJ,

I'd like to see the reference photo, if I could. I see others have made reference to it but I can't fine it, I must be blind.

Is he a "white" Golden? Some are very light in colour. Did the client only provide you with "one" photo? From your description of the reference photo, it sounds as if it's substandard. It rots my socks to hear that you are agonizing over this portrait. The down trodden state you are in right now is "not your fault", especially since you haven't met this animal. The client hasn't done his part in providing adequate reference, so he can go "jump in the lake". I very rarely work from only "one" photo, no one only has "one" photo of their animal. I often try and squeeze as many out of the client as I can.

Anyway, I would like to see this reference.

Thanks

Heather

[E-J]

Hi Heather. Sorry to hear about your rotting socks. :) At least that expression made me smile!

Here's a link to the whole saga of the ref pics I was given, and what was originally requested. Scroll down to post #25 for the head shot - it was provided some time after the others.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?t=308083

Sometimes he looks white, sometimes gold, sometimes both. In trying to compensate for the purple colour cast affecting the shadows in the head shot (and hopefully make for a more dramatic painting) I have indeed not gone light enough overall - though looking at my painting in person, the palest highlights are actually paler than they appear here, almost white in fact. I don't think I can put down another stroke on what is already becoming an overworked piece.

[Kathryn Wilson]

Man, this is a tough spot to be in E-J.

What paper is this worked on? At the 11th hour, when all else fails and you are about to dump it into the bin, please consider not doing that. You have the shape of the head dead on - you are only fretting over the color and the many layers of pastel on the paper.

Consider this, trying brushing out the color - I know this sounds disastrous, but it can work if you take it gently in one spot to see what can be done. (caution: don't do it to the whole head shot at first!!!) I then would use a paper frisket to corral one area and use fixative to reestablish the surface. I've used a fan brush which is very soft and gently brush away.

I've seen lots of "goldens" in this color - think of it as ash blonde.

[*Marina*]

E-J, I think this dog is great. Can't you spray it lightly with a fixative. I did that with my cow (in my signature line), which was done on Canson mi teintes. I used Talens fixative for pastel. It worked fine and did not change the colour. I think I have sprayed my cow at least three times as there was so much pastel on it, so that it did not want to hold any pastel anymore. I don't think the end result will look over worked then. Good luck!

[E-J]

Kat, technical terms - "frisket" and "corral". What do they mean? Sorry to be clueless! Thanks for your suggestions. Marina, thanks too.

[lawsportraits]

Man, this is a tough spot to be in E-J.

At the 11th hour, when all else fails and you are about to dump it into the bin, please consider not doing that. You have the shape of the head dead on - you are only fretting over the color and the many layers of pastel on the paper.

I've seen lots of "goldens" in this color - think of it as ash blonde.

When I need to re-establish tooth I use a soft brush and or a clean kneaded eraser (preferably one that is brand new) I've managed to restore enough tooth to then go in and apply two more layers.

I agree with Kat, you have the shape and likeness of the head. All you need to do is lighten him a bit. I hope I don't sound like a rotten apple by saying that.

I would soften the hard edges of dark brown around ears and folds in the neck, maybe add some of the blue from the background. He has a very babyish face, so any shadow areas should be soft and delicate in order to maintain that youthful look. He has very soft silky hair, you have some lovely wispy hair growing out of the top of ears, I would add more of those to this dog.

I hope this helps EJ

Heather

[cascadeoflove]

Wow! EJ this is wonderful portrait. Just stop now. No more strokes are needed. Really you have achieved a wonderful expression.

Thanks

[E-J]

Wow! EJ this is wonderful portrait. Just stop now. No more strokes are needed. Really you have achieved a wonderful expression.


I wish that were the case! If I don't produce what the client wants, I don't get paid - simple as that. So I guess I've got nothing to lose by giving Heather's suggestions a go. Thanks everyone.

[Kathryn Wilson]

Kat, technical terms - "frisket" and "corral". What do they mean? Sorry to be clueless! Thanks for your suggestions. Marina, thanks too.

Ooops, sorry E-J. Having done watercolors, this is a term they use to keep an area white. If there is a small area that you can experiment with, take a sheet of paper and cut a hole in it the size of the area you want to experiment on. Brush out the pastel in that area (preferably at the bottom to start, then place the frisket over the top of your painting and spray away with fixative. The frisket will keep the spray from straying into parts of the painting you don't want darkened.

Like I said, it is a "last hour" experiment when all else fails. I did use this on my Bryce Canyon painting when one area just did not come up to par - I actually did it several times until I got it just right.

[Grasshopper]

This is so beautifully done it is frustrating to me and I'm not even involved! You're a fabulous artist and you can correct this if needed. I tend to think you can give it more of an illusion of paleness without having to go over the whole dog with touching it here and there, or by maybe changing those dark shadow colors (consider not the darkest part of the shadow but the next darkest). The reason I say that is, it seems the lightest parts of the dog are reading right -reads very light - but for the client I can see him looking at the shadows and saying the dog overall isn't pale enough (they don't look at the need for contrasts). Can you do the dark/light contrast with a bit different coloring for an illusion? Does this make sense? If not, ignore that, but just know, you can succeed in this.

[Natalie NZ]

E-J........I am certainly not very experienced and feel very cheeky commenting on your wonderful painting, but I agree that you have nothing to lose by following Heather's suggestions and make him ash/blonde in stead of golden.........you can do it!!!!

[MarciaJane]

This is super E-J. I have only just seen this thread and I think you have done a wonderful job on this one. Excellent !!! :)

[Khadres]

I don't know why you always worry over these so much! This one is drop-dead gorgeous like all your other work. He's definitely huggable!

[Jolanta]

This is a great portrait of dog but I think I know what your client expected from you. He wants to see light silvery/gray color and your colors are artistically gorgeous but not quite what the owner sees in his dog. In this particular case your client doesn't allow too much of artistic interpretation which is very sad. I know you did the best you can and you should be proud of it. You don't want to overwork it and so on. If you leave it as is and he will accept it I am pretty sure you will NOT feel good about it anyway. I would spray it with Lascaux fixative (it suppose to be the best) to restore the tooth and go with softest greys and whites to lighten and change the color closer to what client wants. I know you will not like it but remember, he pays for it and our job is please the client. To feel better take a good photo of him now and keep it for yourself - then rework it and it will still be beautiful even if it will not look the way you see it. You will feel better all together and get paid for it. Once again - you look at the portrait as an artist - the owner is looking for his dog as far as colors.
Jolanta

[E-J]

I appreciate all your input! Jolanta and Grasshopper, your observations make great sense. Thanks.

I feel silly posting my continuing progress to a thread that's marked "finished", but at the moment I'm just grateful that I AM making progress! If it wasn't for your encouragement, I would have thrown my easel out the window long ago"!

I'm reworking the shadow areas in two goldy colours, a paler one I've used before and a darker gold, both quite hard pastels so that they will blend nicely and not just sit on the top. I've used a bit of fixative, too. Texture always concerns me. You know when the texture of a pastel just goes "yuk"? That's when my heart sinks. Any change of colour at a later stage requires drastic reworking so that the texture can still be made to work.

After this, I'll hopefully get away with going paler with the highlights.

http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/16-Dec-2005/13865-wip9_detail.jpg

As they say: "It'll all be ok in the end. If it's not ok ... it's not the end!" Anyone who sticks around with me till this painting is really, truly, actually finished gets to share a nice pot of English breakfast tea :)

[PeggyB]

Oh EJ - a promise of viewing what will undoubtedly be a wonderful oldie goldie (as my children call old goldens) portrait, and English breakfas tea - I may not always comment, but I'll definately keeping coming back to the very end when you let us know that your client says more than "fine"...

Peggy

[Natalie NZ]

Don't you dare "throw" your easel.......I will be sticking 'til the end.

[Jolanta]

I agree with you about loosing texture all the way. I work with pastels in thin layers and as soon as they get too thick they get on my nerves. In some places I keep working and building up tooo much so when I get to the point I cannot make it thicker I take kneaded eraser and lift some dust from the top by tapping with eraser where I need it to restore the tooth. You can remove a lot of pastel this way - just turn the eraser all the time and use clean part of it to lift as much as you want. Then I go with soft sticks. You mentioned hard sticks - I am afraid hard are good at the beginning but they don't do me any good going hard over soft. I know you feel like this is taking you forever and some pieces just don't turn right and it feels like you need to fight them all the way. Think about the final product, take brakes, don't get frustrated, take your time - I know you can save it. I did it so many times. I am just sooo stubborn I cannot quit until I am satisfied with my work. Only if you make a hole in the paper you can give up on this.
Jolanta

[binkie]

EJ Your work is so lovely. I know you'll finish it and your customer will be thrilled. I'll bring the muffins.

binkie

[E-J]

Well, tea's still on, but the commission's off. Shall I pour? Anyone brought any bourbon biscuits?

I've struggled with this painting for so long now, to a point where I know that it's dead. I've tried all the suggestions offered here, many times over, but every mark I make is now killing the picture's texture and colour, to the point where I am no longer even happy to call it my work. It's also become clear that no amount of time and struggle is going to take me any closer to achieving a believably "almost white" coat as envisaged by the client. I have tried my damnedest, but it's something I can't do. The painting is dead, I'm afraid.

I don't want any more input AT ALL on this. The commission was important to me and I wouldn't have given up on it without really working very very hard to try and achieve what the client wanted, so it's not just a case of brushing a bit off and trying again. I'm saying all this because I know some of you would otherwise try to convince me that I should keep going, but at this stage that wouldn't be helpful. But I am VERY GRATEFUL for all your encouragement - it helped me get to a point where I was very happy with my painting and proud of my persistence. Unfortunately, having to keep pushing it past that point has made it clear that this isn't going to work out.

I just want my life back now, and to start being able to think about christmas!

Thanks guys. Hope you enjoy my painting in its earlier "finished" incarnation and sorry to disappoint you all.

[Kathryn Wilson]

Pour the tea, E-J. And let's toast to a Happy Christmas and a great New Year.

[MarciaJane]

I know how you feel E-J.... been there before. Commission are fine when they turn out how you want them to. We win some we lose some. You made a darn good attempt on this one and it is still really good.. but not good enough for you obviously. I also think at this time of year commissions are added pressure and you are trying to get them done for someone for christmas, plus thinking about all the other things that need doing. I have just had all that with the one I have recently posted.

You have a really good christmas, and maybe you can attempt this one again in the future. It would be a shame not to do it again, as you were really doing so well with it.

All the best for 2006 ! :)

[Orchidacea]

Oh, E-J, what a bummer! Get yourself something sinfully delicious, put your feet up and savor it. Chalk this up to a lesson learned, and move on!!

I'm not disappointed in you! You worked your tushie off on this one...and while it didn't work out, I know you have many successful commissions in your future. Just be firm with your customers from the outset and refuse to work from crap references, and you'll be all set!

Happy Holidays!!!

[Beanie]

E-J you deserve a medal for all the time and efort that you put in. We all understand how you must be feeling right now, - its such a hideous thing when this happens.

It was a beautiful painting and just such a pity that you could not please the client. So put it behind you and move on.

Have a lovely festive season and I look forward to seeing your next gorgeous piece!

[KJSCL]

E-J, so sorry it came it this point but bravo to you for saying enough's enough. Give yourself the credit you deserve for what you were able to achieve. I personally think you did an absolutely wonderful portrait of the dog.

[meowmeow]

((E-J)) I am sorry about all this but it is a beautiful painting...too bad the client doesn't see it that way.
Don't chuck it though...put it aside and maybe later you can frame it and some other golden lover will love it....ot maybe you'll feel like playing with it some more. But now it is obviously time to set it aside...and move on!
And never view time painting as wasted time...you always learn and grown by working like this.
Hang in there...you've done a great job!

Sandy

[*Marina*]

So sorry E-J, that you could not please your client. It was such a lovely painting. You have put so much time and effort in. Must have been very frustrating. Just leave it behind you and get ready for christmas.
Merry Christmas!

[binkie]

I'll bring a rum cake. I know you don't want any more discussion but all I have to say about your beautiful painting is it's the client's loss!

binkie

[Natalie NZ]

As Binkie say's, it is the client's loss. I've just made a rhubarb and apple cake to bring........

[E-J]

Thanks guys. Rum AND rhubarb & apple cake ... I feel better already. :)

[E-J]

An update on this one: my client's asked whether I'll consider giving the portrait another go, and has offered to pay me something towards my time and materials so far.

It feels good to have another chance to make it work, so I will be making a start on painting #2 in the New Year! :)

[*Marina*]

You are very brave to start all over again.

[Jolanta]

This is a good thing. I think if you use the right colors from the start you will not have any problem. You already have the composition done. I just finished commission and my client didn't like the hair.I did the hair exactly the way it was in the photo with highlights. My client said it looks to her like I gave her gray hair. She wanted me to change it to blonde because she was blonde long time ago - this is not what I see in the photo, but client is always right so now she is blonde - hope she will like it. I am very glad I don't take it personally - just do what they want. I am not attached emotionally to commissions work. With my work is a different story.
Good luck - I am glad you are going to do it.
Jolanta

[MarciaJane]

Good for you E-J !! :) Look forward to seeing it.

[Natalie NZ]

Best of luck with painting No. 2, (not that you need luck as your paintings are beautiful anyway), but please do not get yourself too stressed out this time.

[doe]

I've had too busy of a work schedule as usual to be here at all but I'm off today and see that the old golden saga continues! I'm happy to hear that you will have a second chance to paint this dog's portrait. You'll probably be less frustrated this time around since you already know where you're going with this.

Best of luck and happy holidays!

[Dark_Shades]

What a Bummer of a year............. when your reach rock bottom.... the only way is.......... UP ...... new year, new beginings, starting over a fresh...... and dont forget EJ........ you have one lovely painting to SELL as IS