I think Ive bitten off more than I can chew

[hunterpaul]

well, I dont mind admitting, I am struggling somewhat with this painting, I wanted to paint a black panther on a dark BG, this is the first days work... and it is in the very very ugly stage, I suppose I have to remember that all my stuff goes through this stage... fingers crossed for me on this.... Paul
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff134/hunterpaul/05042011122.jpg
I almost didnt post this... but figured, I have to post the bad with the good.. Paul

[hunterpaul]

day two... and still struggling....
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff134/hunterpaul/07042011125.jpg

[vapsman88]

Paul,

You made major improvements today, it seems to be coming together nicely.
I look forward to further updates.

~John

[birdlady]

oh gosh Paul .. I cant imagine you struggling with this. But if so Its going to be another wonderful piece and your talent will shine thro as it always does. Are you done with the cheek areas since you put in the whiskers? I love all the shine areas and really look forward to this coming to life. I dont see a size on it and is it on the board?


Laurie

[snowfall]

Looking good so far - will be spectacular when its finished.

Pam

[cardboardcutout]

hey Paul this is going to be great as usual......I know the feeling but you'll work through it. I can't wait to see more :)
Laura

[lisapencil]

Wow I wish my ugly stages looked this good. A great start can't wait to see more. :cat:

[Antiqueteacher]

Paul, I took a tour of your past works and was awed at your paintings! This one will turn out to be a beauty with one brushstroke at a time, too!

Katherine

[Kathrin G.]

day two... and still struggling....

....could have fooled me :rolleyes: :evil: :wink2: ....:lol:

Crikey Paul, its looking great already :clap: :clap: :clap:

Must be something about dark animals on dark BGs, I am working on one with weeks already too, but mine is defo more of a struggle then yours :o :eek: :lol:

[Honko]

The sheen of the fur....I just want to reach out and pet it, but it doesn't look very friendly :eek:

[outsidemywindow]

you will absolutely get there Paul, just wait to those last glazes and this creature just emerging from the dark the whole painting will just pop, cant wait to see the end result

[hunterpaul]

I cant believe the great comments, thank you for them all... it is on board, in acrylic, and none of it is complete yet....
I had a slight disagreement with the wife, threw my toys out of the pram and went to my studio this evening and hit the board for a couple of hours with the paint brush... this is where I am now.... Paul
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff134/hunterpaul/08042011131.jpg

[tulabula]

This is going to be a stunner! I wish my struggles looked this good, heck I wish my finished paintings did LOL
I love seeing how you are handling the black fur, it's something I haven't figured out yet. Thanks for posting this

[FaeLynn]

Wow Paul. Stunning and really grabs your eye. I think once you get the highlit details in, it will really pop. This just about gives me goosebumps it looks so good! I can't wait to see more.

[PatrickHedges]

It's a bit annoying that your ugly stage is better than my pretty stages.

(Unless you were talking about what you see in the mirror?) :lol:

[nickib]

Paul, I can see that this is going to be awesome!!!!! I love Black panthers. Someday I want to paint one. You are such a talented person. You should be proud:clap: :clap: :clap: Nicki

[wildlifeart89]

Paul, I think this looks stunning. Loving the open mouth. I always enjoy seeing your work...so inspiring. The detail you have already is amazing!
Paige:)

[Kevin2417]

Seriously Paul, this is already outstanding! I wish I had your talent.

[stirling]

Think i would even go darker on the bg.,have the Leopard coming out of the darkness into the light,go on let's have some dramatic light and shade Paul!!

Best from mike.

[hunterpaul]

Think i would even go darker on the bg.,have the Leopard coming out of the darkness into the light,go on let's have some dramatic light and shade Paul!!

Best from mike.
M ike, you have hit the nail on the head mate.... thats my intension, But I need to establish the cat to see how far I can go... thanks for all the wonderful replies, believe me, I am struggling, the tiger sort of fell off the brush where this is a bit of a pain, all those different shades to make up black aaaaaarrgh... Paul

[03ahmed]

Really, really looking forward to this Paul!! Am confident that you will turn it into a masterpiece!

Is this a melanistic jaguar or leopard? I have seen three different individuals with this colouring and it is amazing how you can alway still see that a glimpse of gold in their fur.

In your opinion do you belive that the airbrush is a great tool to have for underpainting and backgrounds? I am thinking of investing in one sometime in the future and would like some advice.:D

[cardboardcutout]

Patrick your so right I wish the same thing....too funny. Paul your "ugly stage" is great. This is going to be just stunning. I can't wait to see more
:) Laura

[RADAR]

Paul,You can do this i have confidence in you,and Mikes suggestion was right on the money,that would make a more dramatic painting!

[Lexycat]

Paul, if you lack confidence in your artwork, what hope is there for most of us out there???:lol:

I love seeing how artists tackle a black animal, the underpainting is gorgeous, beautiful colours - it looks like it is going to be annoyingly purrfect - I find the transitions in black fur really hard, but I bet yours will just flow.....

Look forward to more:)

[natureartist1]

I really like it so far, I know you will work out all the details and create a great piece. I admire your airbrush technique in your paintings especally the backgrounds what type of airbrush do you use or recommend for soft focus backgrounds. I have a iwata micron with a side cup that just gives me a hard time spraying. any advice would be great thanks. Craig.:thumbsup:

[online art]

Biting off more than you (think) you can chew is what it is all about :)

And your doing VERY well on this difficult piece.

In times when I feel I am struggling I generally pick a section that has the darkest darks or lightest lights and bring it to almost completion. This area then giudes me in assessing the lights and darks of the rest o fthe canvas - I'm up for anything that makes my life easier :)

Whats the painting/board size?

[hunterpaul]

Hi Jason, the board is 3ft x2ft. And thanks for that advice I have just walked away from it in frustration, but will go back down and try what you have suggested... I think I will try to complete the mouth area.... Paul

[online art]

Yes that is the area I would have picked, that is pretty much the centre of interest so when you get that 90% done you will have the confidence to treat the rest of it a little more loosely which will make that head pop right out :)

Your going to be happy with this one when it's done I'm sure :)

[hunterpaul]

Cheers Jason, I have worked the mouth up a bit, and it has built my confidence in the piece to see some of it more alive... what would I do without you?????? Paul

[Lexycat]

Paul, looking at your website, the black lab you did would - I imagine - not be disimiliar from what you're doing now, ie light reflections scattered over the face and continual transitions from light to mid to dark tones - you did a suberb job on that, beautifully blended transitions that look natural. I've only done one black animal, and obviously I know nothing about painting, but I know I found it very hard to get a flow going, as the transitions mean you keep stopping and starting trying to get tones right.

I cant post the dog here, as you cant download from your site, but if you did that so well - and its stunning - there's no reason why this wont be equally brill, or better, as you've probably learnt a lot more since then......just some words of encouragement:)

[hunterpaul]

thanks Lexy, I cant remember what I did with the black lab it was so long ago, and this is the only black animal I have done since... but your words as well as everybody elses are very encouraging.... this is not the best photo... taken with the phone, but here is the work I did today...
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff134/hunterpaul/11042011134.jpg
Im feeling a bit better about it now, and am just layering and building... Paul

[Kathrin G.]

I think you are chewing away just fine :wink2: :evil: ...... :clap: :clap: :clap:
Looking good :thumbsup:

[thewingedshadow]

But it's pure amazing.
I second the one who said your ugly stage look better than our good stages..

[hunterpaul]

thanks guys, I am feeling better about this as it goes along. I think after the tiger took shape so quickly I thought I had this painting lark sussed, this was so different, which in a way Im glad of, I would hate it to be easy and just a matter of following some sort of routine, saying that it is early days yet. And the school holidays are going to slow any progress right down.

[WSV]

A very nice looking cat emerging here Paul. Seeing it come to life is excellent!
Have a great day. Pat

[chammi kaiser]

Well, Patrick. Firstly, I took a look at your new website. It is great. Sketch-book is my favourite. That is where the bubbling spring of creativity starts and thanks for letting us take a look at yours. Your painting is superb. What I so enjoy about your work is that you take infinite time over each phase and I really admire your commitment.

[hunterpaul]

heres a pic of me today painting the panther... it gives a nice idea of size, and shows me with a little less hair on my chin... Paul
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff134/hunterpaul/IMG_1436.jpg

[Kathrin G.]

looks like your after getting into the swing of it now ...... fantastic update :clap: :clap: :clap:

[Lexycat]

Paul, you're looking very intense and serious in that photo, and very clean cut too of course.....Stop showing off how big your paintings are, you're making me feel inadequate:lol:

That panther is now looking magnificent, incredibly beautiful animals and you're bringing him/her to life in all its glory. When finished, this and the tiger would look extremely striking hanging side by side in a gallery (with a hefty price tag of course......), or can you bear to part with them?

[hunterpaul]

looks like your after getting into the swing of it now ...... fantastic update :clap: :clap: :clap:
thanks Kathrin.... Im getting the hang of it, it is funny how you accidently try something and it is the answer to your prayers, In this case it was my old fave that I use very sparingly the zinc white.... Paul

[hunterpaul]

Paul, you're looking very intense and serious in that photo, and very clean cut too of course.....Stop showing off how big your paintings are, you're making me feel inadequate:lol:

That panther is now looking magnificent, incredibly beautiful animals and you're bringing him/her to life in all its glory. When finished, this and the tiger would look extremely striking hanging side by side in a gallery (with a hefty price tag of course......), or can you bear to part with them?
Ill be sure to smile in my next one, according to us men size isnt everything, but I know you ladies say different, ha ha...
I would be more than happy to part with the paintings, I just need to find someone to buy them... Im already planning my next painting... it wont be a cat this time... Paul

[Kathrin G.]

...... according to us men size isnt everything, but I know you ladies say different, ha ha...

we never say size doesnt matter :confused: .... but its quality over quantity :evil: :lol: :smug: :evil:


... Im already planning my next painting... it wont be a cat this time... Paul

now I need to ask .... whats next ?????? :D

[hunterpaul]

we never say size doesnt matter :confused: .... but its quality over quantity :evil: :lol: :smug: :evil:




now I need to ask .... whats next ?????? :D
ha... you always say size doesnt matter, until the relationship is over, lol....
I fancy getting back to my birds, so Im working on a goshawk portrait idea, quite large... of course. lol.... but |Im not commiting to it just in case something else takes my fancy... Paul

[Kathrin G.]

ha... you always say size doesnt matter, until the relationship is over, lol....
oh no, never ever kiss and tell :smug: :wink2: ....lol

I fancy getting back to my birds, so Im working on a goshawk portrait idea, quite large... of course. lol.... but |Im not commiting to it just in case something else takes my fancy... Paul
looking forward to it ..... or whatever else takes your painting fancy :clap:

[Honko]

While the whole painting is a marvel to look at, I think the two bottom teeth are the best part of the painting. I feel like I could actually reach out and grab them, most likely at the expense of my arm.

[birdlady]

such intense looks not only on your face Paul but that panther also. Between the eyes and the mouth its really came to life. Love this for the beauty of black in it. I have to do a black animal and not looking forward to it BUT in watching you with this one and how u did the lab I may get the needed help in this WIP also. Excited to see the next update.

Laurie

[FoggyMountain]

Really incredible work. Love it.

[hunterpaul]

oh no, never ever kiss and tell :smug: :wink2: ....lol

looking forward to it ..... or whatever else takes your painting fancy :clap:
ha ha..... you make me laugh....
I really fancy getting back to feathers.... Paul

[hunterpaul]

such intense looks not only on your face Paul but that panther also. Between the eyes and the mouth its really came to life. Love this for the beauty of black in it. I have to do a black animal and not looking forward to it BUT in watching you with this one and how u did the lab I may get the needed help in this WIP also. Excited to see the next update.

Laurie
Laurie, I think the trick is not to use any actual black, and if you do, save it till last and cut it with something else... Paul

[hunterpaul]

While the whole painting is a marvel to look at, I think the two bottom teeth are the best part of the painting. I feel like I could actually reach out and grab them, most likely at the expense of my arm.
I quite like the teeth too. But as jason told me to concentrate on one area to get me going this area (mouth) is the only area anywhere near finished... but the mouth and eyes will be the main focus of this painting.... Paul

[hunterpaul]

Really incredible work. Love it.
thank you so much... Paul

[PatrickHedges]

Size definitely matters. Of course, I'm fortunate in that I can say that with confidence.

Ok, I lie :(

:lol:

Spectacular photo showing the scale Paul. I think your work would be incredibly impressive if I could only crawl through the computer screen. Man I would love to see it in the flesh one day!!!

[hunterpaul]

Size definitely matters. Of course, I'm fortunate in that I can say that with confidence.

Ok, I lie :(

:lol:

Spectacular photo showing the scale Paul. I think your work would be incredibly impressive if I could only crawl through the computer screen. Man I would love to see it in the flesh one day!!!
ha ha ha ha....I knew you would be joining in, ha ha... I hope if you ever come to blighty you will look me up Patrick, I know we will absolutely click mate....

[Grace5]

Wow, great work on the teeth and eyes they look so realistic, can't wait to see this finished. Thanks for showing us the real size of this painting.

[WSV]

Ok Paul, which of you two have been chewing on the brush? :D coming along nicely.
Have a great day. Pat

[hunterpaul]

Thanks guys.... Pat, I use a stay wet Palette, and it has a reservoir of water to keep the brushes from drying out, some of the brushes if I do a long session tend to shed their coat of paint.... It is really annoying.... as I like things to be pristine, I clean my brushes thoroughly after every days painting to keep them in good condition, especially with acrylics. So the paint problem drives me a little nuts, its even worse when I find it happens to a brush I am getting on well with. Does anybody else find certain brushes become like soul mates, and then eventually you just have to let them go as they dwindle away? Paul

[Kathrin G.]

ha ha..... you make me laugh....
I really fancy getting back to feathers.... Paul

laughing is a great stress relief you know :D :lol:
looking forward to your next update :wave:

[hunterpaul]

Katherin, there are lots of ways to relieve stress..... No... not that, rude girl, PAINTING, you cant focus on the problems in the world and paint or draw. So a great forum all in all then WC, it makes you laugh and encourages one to paint... what stress? Paul

[Kathrin G.]

Katherin, there are lots of ways to relieve stress..... No... not that, rude girl, PAINTING, you cant focus on the problems in the world and paint or draw. So a great forum all in all then WC, it makes you laugh and encourages one to paint... what stress? Paul

maybe the stress starts when you get into the feathers :evil: ...........:evil: :lol:

[hunterpaul]

you are just naughty.... Paul.
I dont know how to work those smilie face things... but that nughty red one is defo you... lol..

[Kathrin G.]

you are just naughty.... Paul.
I dont know how to work those smilie face things... but that nughty red one is defo you... lol..

ME :eek: ....... never :angel: :angel: :angel: ..................... well :evil: :lol:
I just love being naughty tho, its so much fun :smug: ..... lol :D

[hunterpaul]

Tickles me too... on a serious note I checked out your site. I cannot believe you only picked up a pencil in 2007, your pencil work is superb, as is your painted work... I am very impressed. Now you can go back to being naughty again... :thumbsup: just found the smilies:wave:

[Kathrin G.]

Tickles me too... on a serious note I checked out your site. I cannot believe you only picked up a pencil in 2007, your pencil work is superb, as is your painted work... I am very impressed. Now you can go back to being naughty again... :thumbsup: just found the smilies:wave:

:clap: for you finding the smilies :clap: :lol:
Hi ya :wave:

Thanks for taking a look at my site and the nice compliment :heart: 2007 sure feels like a lifetime away now. But yes, I was fortunate enough to find WC at the same time as I started this art thing. So many talented people here :clap:
I did have the advantage that Tim (Taylor) took me under his wings early on. He was tough but I learned lots. I owe him big time. Guess he was disappointed that I choose Acrylics, he is an oil man. So now I got to fiddle along pretty much on my own. But I love the journey.
Helps to have people like you here, so much to learn by watching :clap:
And so much fun ..... in and out of feathers :evil: :lol:

[hunterpaul]

AHHHHHHgood old tim.... he doesnt pull any punches does he, I quite like that though, Jason is my person I rely on for pure honest critique of my work, and I try to return the same to him... again he is an oily but he seems to welcome the fact that I am acrylic, and has never tried to turn my head, in fact he sort of lets me follow my heart and I think if I was painting in mud, as long as they were turning out ok, he would encourage it.
For goodness sake dont try to learn anything from me, I am winging it. Unless its in feathers, then I am really an expert, and I know what Im doing, but this is through a fair bit of study, so maybe I could teach you something in that department.... lost the smilies again, but imagine a cheeky wink here... I havent seen much feather work on your site, I should send you a pic of my bird to have a go at.... that last but may sound naughty but I actually mean it... lol... Paul. Now where did those darn smilies go...

[Kathrin G.]

I am an expert in feathers :smug: ..... just not on the art side of it :evil: :wink2: :lol:

I would love to take you up on that photo offer tho :thumbsup: :clap: You are right, it would be a change and a challenge to boot :D

Jason is a really special artist. His work makes my jaw drop. But dont you bother playing your work down. You are far from winging it :clap:

It wasnt that Tim didnt approve. It was just that he figured he couldnt help me as much, if you get what I mean.
And anyway, his life is gone so busy, there is no time for little old me :o But he does give me tips and critique whenever he can, so I guess he didnt forget me completely yet.

[03ahmed]

I just got a shot of a black jaguar at the zoo today, so this is well going to come in handy when I attempt it!!! Still looking awesome!

[midcoast]

Paul,

This is looking beautiful. It's a testament to your skills that I don't see a sense of your struggle in the painting itself.

Nancy

[lisapencil]

You are my inspiration Paul. Your work is phenomenal. How long it take you to get to this level because I need to know whether I can achieve it this lifetime or if I have to wait to the next. :lol:

[Kathrin G.]

You are my inspiration Paul. Your work is phenomenal. How long it take you to get to this level because I need to know whether I can achieve it this lifetime or if I have to wait to the next. :lol:

Good question :wink2: :clap: :thumbsup: I want an answer to that too :smug:

Any update coming up Paul or are you still daydreaming of feathers :evil: :lol:

[moodymand]

Referring to the beginnings of this thread... Looks like you're having no problems to me! Looks awesome Paul! :)

[online art]

Looking damn good Paul!

Now put that little brush away you used for the photo, get the big ones back out and crack on with the painting, plenty of time for those details at the very end - your a detail freak for sure!
Gonna be another cracker - I'm looking forwards to seeing what you do with that foreground.

[Kathrin G.]

.....Now put that little brush away you used for the photo, get the big ones back out and crack on with the painting......

You tell him Jason :clap: :evil: :lol:

[JoyK]

The shine on the coat is magnificent. The drawing is well proportioned. What medium is this?

[Lexycat]

Yes Paul, how long have you been painting? And how did you master acrylics to be sooo good? I'm curious to know also did learning to use the airbrush psh your work to the next level?

Now, back to work and stop flirting with naughty Kathrin, I know you love your birds - but we want an update - sharpish:wink2: (I'm good at cracking the whip)

[Kathrin G.]

Now, back to work and stop flirting with naughty Kathrin......

flirting :eek: perish the thought :eek: ..........:evil: :lol:


....but we want an update - sharpish:wink2: (I'm good at cracking the whip)

:clap: :clap: :clap:

I think Paul thinks he is in holidays, just like the kids :rolleyes: :lol: :lol:

[hunterpaul]

why I aughda..... Im actually in leeds for a couple of days filming so not able to paint... aaaaaargh.... But back to it asap.... Jason the little brush is just for the pose.... I use a pasting brush in reality... I havent mastered acrylics, I just keep going layer after layer until it starts to look passable, then I move on to the next bit... Paul

[online art]

Yep... know that Paul :) Next time put a little paint on the brush 1st ha.... :evil:

[hunterpaul]

paint on the brush.... I would only spoil it... ha ha... I may get a paint brush and let some paint dry onto it, and it can then be my posing brush... Paul

[Kathrin G.]

why I aughda..... Im actually in leeds for a couple of days filming so not able to paint...

a true multi task talent :clap:
... I havent mastered acrylics, I just keep going layer after layer until it starts to look passable, then I move on to the next bit... Paul

you keep telling yourself that :rolleyes: .... we know better :smug:

[John Palmer Fine Art]

Terrific painting Paul, I am amazed at the scale of this as much as I am with the quality. And all done with the wrong end of a paint brush too!
John

[Joe'sHottie]

I had a slight disagreement with the wife, threw my toys out of the pram and went to my studio this evening and hit the board for a couple of hours with the paint brush... this is where I am now.... Paul

Amazing what we wives can bring out in our husbands . . .:angel: Oh, my . . . this is amazing. Please post the final!

[Barb'sArt]

This is way beyond Great! I'm speechless!
I love the highlights, the colors, Heck..I LOVE everything about this painting! Can't wait to see the final!
I envy those that can get such great detail with acrylics! I've tried, but my technique is very lacking. But, you have inspired me to try again in the near future.

[PatrickHedges]

Next time you take a 'paintbrush photo' you should use a six inch house painting roller and really freak people out :lol:

[hunterpaul]

Next time you take a 'paintbrush photo' you should use a six inch house painting roller and really freak people out :lol:
great minds think alike Patrick...

[hunterpaul]

well here is an update... I have posted this first and will post a better angle, its just that the glare from a straight on photo is horrendous, as you will see... Paulhttp://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff134/hunterpaul/IMG_1462.jpg

[hunterpaul]

here is the straight on shot... I have been working on adding the grass and moss that the cat is looking from behind, planning its next meal... the panther is not finished yet, but it was driving me crazy so I had to move on to something else... will post more updates when they happen... Paul

[hunterpaul]

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff134/hunterpaul/IMG_1464.jpg
here it is.. Paul

[Kathrin G.]

Since my "Yeats" stallion portrait I realised that the darker the painting the higher the glare ... mission impossible to photograph :rolleyes:
But for all its worth .... I utterly looooooove your update :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:

[cardboardcutout]

OMG!!!!!! You are amazing...this is awesome!! wow this is going to be great!! I love the blues in the panther......wow....wow.....did I say wow....
Laura

[biglump08]

Love the great detail in the forground.Great picture alltogether.Love it.Keep up the great work.

[hunterpaul]

Since my "Yeats" stallion portrait I realised that the darker the painting the higher the glare ... mission impossible to photograph :rolleyes:
But for all its worth .... I utterly looooooove your update :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:
thanks naughty.... there has to be a way to take a pic straight on and avoid glare, maybe somebody needs to start a how to take the best pics of your dark paintings thread...
thanks for the replies guys... Paul:thumbsup:

[Lexycat]

Never mind the panther, I'm in love with the grass:heart:

[PaintedLass]

This is looking amazing ~ it's going to be a true stunner when it's done!

[PatrickHedges]

Man I'm loving that foreground!!!

[FarmGirl29]

Wow, this is truly amazing!

[wildlifeart89]

Paul, your work is incredible. The shine on that jaguar's coat is stunning, loving the foreground. :D
Paige

[aRt4us]

Hi Paul
Hope you don’t mind I’ve tweaked your painting by over laying the angled image over the square one by using the distort tool in photo shop. Must say it’s looking great.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/22-Apr-2011/82849-003.jpg (http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/Uploader/upload_image_save2.php#)

I always take an angled photo of dark images to avoid glaze and then use distort to square them up.

Painting fun
Gary

[hunterpaul]

Thanks guys... wow Gary, that is way beyond my capability. If you wouldnt mind, Ive started a thread on taking pics of your work, it would be great if you could post a step by step on there of how you do this... remembering that there are some idiots that will read it..(Me) so keep it simple and in terms a monkey would understand... Im sure I wont be the only one to appreciate it... Paul

[stirling]

Lovely detail coming in the face Paul,really loving that foreground,wil you be putting anything in that negative space to the right?

Best from mike.

[hunterpaul]

DO you mean above the foreground between the cat and the edge? I dont know mate... Im sort of making it up as I go... there will be grasses and twigs but I thought about adding something into the main frame on that area, but dont want to overguild the lilly, as once I commit to something it has to work or the pic is kapputt .... what do you think? Paul

[stirling]

Yes i thought maybe a few grasses Paul,would make them quite tall,about half way up the canvas maybe?

Best from mike.

[OcelotEyes]

This is looking amazing!!

[hunterpaul]

Yes i thought maybe a few grasses Paul,would make them quite tall,about half way up the canvas maybe?

Best from mike.
I know what you mean mike.... I thought about having some foliage creeping in through the top right corner, but maybe thats a bit naff... the pic doesnt represent the painting very well, and the bottom half of the negative area, is quite dark, which I sort of like, so adding some tallish grass, or dead twigs may accentuate the depth of dark... its a difficult one mate, as I dont want to get the wrong plants in, somebody is bound to be an expert... I,ll keep building the bottom right and see what you think... thanks for the input mate... Paul

[hunterpaul]

This is looking amazing!!
thank you...

[WSV]

The lighting keeps getting better and bettter Paul!! Foreground grasses are bringing life to the scene. :thumbsup:
Have a great day. Pat

[aRt4us]

Thanks guys... wow Gary, that is way beyond my capability. If you wouldnt mind, Ive started a thread on taking pics of your work, it would be great if you could post a step by step on there of how you do this... remembering that there are some idiots that will read it..(Me) so keep it simple and in terms a monkey would understand... Im sure I wont be the only one to appreciate it... Paul

A guide for idiots (sounds like a job for me) on photo-shop tweaking a dark image.
I'll get right on it Paul.
Anyone with the capability to paint dark black with no paint on their brush is a better man than me and I'll do what he ask.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/22-Apr-2011/82849-004.jpg (http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/Uploader/upload_image_save2.php#)


Send me an angled full image of your panther and I’ll do a step by step guide for all to see and post it on your photo tread.
Painting fun
Gary

[hunterpaul]

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff134/hunterpaul/IMG_1475.jpg
wellllll I bit the bullet and took this outside in the shade to photgraph it...
I am going to invest in a polarizing filter for my camera though... Gary, of course there is no paint on the brush, if the guy who does my paintings for me saw me go near it with a loaded brush he would kill me... Paul

[Kathrin G.]

... Gary, of course there is no paint on the brush, if the guy who does my paintings for me saw me go near it with a loaded brush he would kill me... Paul

:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

way better photo :thumbsup: and that foreground is just getting better and better :clap: :clap: :clap: (be careful or it will steal the show from the cat :eek: :wink2: )

[hunterpaul]

thanks Kathrin, I appreciate that.... Paul
heres a bit more
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff134/hunterpaul/IMG_1487.jpg

[03ahmed]

Looking great!! The foreground is brilliant! You have inspired me to do a black jaguar in scratch!:)

[Kathrin G.]

your speeding along Paul :clap: :clap: :clap:

[Lexycat]

I agree the detail in the foreground is suberb:thumbsup: Are you going to add some more colour to the eyes, or are they done? Would a little amber/orange look good in them? (cant beleive I am giving advice to PAUL - WTF do I know about painting:eek: )

[YoungFang]

Looking great, as always. I always thing black animals are the hardest to get right and you've done a marvellous job with the fur. Full of envy :)

[FaeLynn]

This is just so good. I am at a loss for words! My brain's getting tired of trying to find the best praise to give this painting, so I'll just shut up and gawk some more.
Oh, wait! Pictures! Yes!:) :clap: :thumbsup: :heart: :D ;)
Umm, does that cover it?:)

[tigress]

You were right in saying at the start that it looked pretty ugly but it sure has transformed into an absolutely beautiful piece. Well done!!!

[winecountry]

stupendous Paul!

[stirling]

That Leopards looking fantastic Paul.
This was my idea for the grasses,think it helps with the composition?

Best from mike.
http://www.wetcanvas.com/Community/images/23-Apr-2011/117890-IMG_1487.jpg

[PatrickHedges]

Heck, this is apprearing like a ghost out of the background. It's really working for me!! (Also loving what Mike did)

[hunterpaul]

still contemplating extending the grass thanks for that Mike.... but this is what I have so far
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff134/hunterpaul/IMG_1578.jpg

[stirling]

That face as really come to life Paul and some very nice detail in the foreground.

Best from mike.

[hunterpaul]

cheers Mike.... I have had enough with this one... may put it to one side for a while... but It is so close to completion I dont know what to do...

[jody007]

I love the way the shine is on the coat! You really make the black look so beautiful.
Jody

[cardboardcutout]

The foreground is amazing and black is tough but you made it look easy...this is great just as it is.

[KJSieloff]

Wow! Paul, I can tell you what to do with it - sign it and ship it to me!! HA!! This is fabulous just the way it is.

[stirling]

cheers Mike.... I have had enough with this one... may put it to one side for a while... but It is so close to completion I dont know what to do...

I think i would put this one to bed Paul and start something else.
You know what i would do but it's not worth worrying about.
It's still a great painting as is.
It's been a very interesting thread,thanks for that!

Best from mike.

[hunterpaul]

I think i would put this one to bed Paul and start something else.
You know what i would do but it's not worth worrying about.
It's still a great painting as is.
It's been a very interesting thread,thanks for that!

Best from mike.
The thing is Im still contemplating extending the grass or adding something coming down from the top right and side, I think you are right and it needs something, I just wish I was better on photoshop to help me decide what.... I also think something in this area will push the cat back, which is one thing I would like to do....

[stirling]

Yes i'm pretty rubbish on photo shop as well Paul!
I think i would still go for the longer grasses,if anything.
Wouldn't want you to spoil it though!

Best from mike.

[hunterpaul]

welllllll heres me with the Black Panther pic... hope you like it.
http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff134/hunterpaul/IMG_1604.jpg

[OcelotEyes]

Like it - LOVE it!!!! This turned out every bit as amazing as I thought it would :D

[birdlady]

stunning ending to it Paul. I like how you have shown how massive it is by being in the photo. I really depend on my PSP to help me when I have problems to figure out with my drawings. Its pulled me out of things many a time. I love the depth you have in this one and no way would want to meet up with this guy..might git me for breakfast. :lol:

whats up next?

Laurie

[stirling]

When i suggested something in the negative space,i didn't mean you Paul!!
Great photo.

Best from mike.

[Kathrin G.]

When i suggested something in the negative space,i didn't mean you Paul!!
Great photo.

Best from mike.

exactly my thoughts :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

Fab finish Paul :thumbsup: :clap: :clap: :clap:

[snowfall]

Amazing finish Paul. Absolutely love it.

Pam

[03ahmed]

Yeh I love it, except for that little human addition!!:lol:

[rewston]

gorgeous work!

[Shana1065]

Stunning! I just love it!

[KJSieloff]

wow!!!

[hunterpaul]

thanks guys, so you dont think I should leave the fat bloke at the front in?
I suppose I could paint him out. lol... thanks again

[PatrickHedges]

thanks guys, so you dont think I should leave the fat bloke at the front in?
I suppose I could paint him out. lol... thanks again
Have you got enough paint left over? :lol:

Well done!! And I love the size (of the painting)

[hunterpaul]

Have you got enough paint left over? :lol:

Well done!! And I love the size (of the painting)
Cheeky bleeder... ha ha made me laugh tho.

[lisapencil]

Wow Paul it's stunning. The panther is so lifelike and nearly ran and hide behind my easel. :lol:

[tulabula]

absolutely gorgeous! I am working on learning to do black fur right now and it is not easy, you have done a stunning job of it.

[wildlifeart89]

Paul, your work never fails to amaze me. The details on the Panther face are incredible, love how the eyes just pop out from the black fur. The entire background/foreground is awesome too. A beautiful piece!:clap:
Paige

[FarmGirl29]

Awww, leave him in for good measure;)
I think your painting is just....Amazing!!

[Lexycat]

I missed the finish on this - completely stunning and gorgeous, wonderful achievement to have done this and the tiger. Breathtaking actually (the panther that is, not you):lol: You really should be making a lot of money with your art Paul, you're up there with the best of them.......

[hunterpaul]

I missed the finish on this - completely stunning and gorgeous, wonderful achievement to have done this and the tiger. Breathtaking actually (the panther that is, not you):lol: You really should be making a lot of money with your art Paul, you're up there with the best of them.......
Hi sexycat, the L on my laptop isnt working.... only kidding... what a lovely thing to say... many thanks. Paul

[Lexycat]

Meeeiaow:evil:

[hunterpaul]

Meeeiaow:evil:
ha ha.

[Tim Taylor]

AHHHHHHgood old tim.... he doesnt pull any punches does he, I quite like that though, Jason is my person I rely on for pure honest critique of my work, and I try to return the same to him... again he is an oily but he seems to welcome the fact that I am acrylic, and has never tried to turn my head, in fact he sort of lets me follow my heart and I think if I was painting in mud, as long as they were turning out ok, he would encourage it.
For goodness sake dont try to learn anything from me, I am winging it. Unless its in feathers, then I am really an expert, and I know what Im doing, but this is through a fair bit of study, so maybe I could teach you something in that department.... lost the smilies again, but imagine a cheeky wink here... I havent seen much feather work on your site, I should send you a pic of my bird to have a go at.... that last but may sound naughty but I actually mean it... lol... Paul. Now where did those darn smilies go...

Have I been that hard on you Paul? I loved everything about the recent tiger portrait! I love the head here and the foreground! I can't say I'm thrilled with the dramatically shallow depth of field here but we've had this discussion before. I have always told you I think you are immensely talented and that is just growing by leaps and bounds in your more recent work. But I do look forward to the day that you have a more resolved middleground. I checked out your website, very nice. I'm glad you have the wonderful advice of Jason to rely on as I have my friend Adam Grimm. We all need someone to give us the honest assesment in order to grow as artists.

Tim

[Tim Taylor]

:clap: for you finding the smilies :clap: :lol:
Hi ya :wave:

Thanks for taking a look at my site and the nice compliment :heart: 2007 sure feels like a lifetime away now. But yes, I was fortunate enough to find WC at the same time as I started this art thing. So many talented people here :clap:
I did have the advantage that Tim (Taylor) took me under his wings early on. He was tough but I learned lots. I owe him big time. Guess he was disappointed that I choose Acrylics, he is an oil man. So now I got to fiddle along pretty much on my own. But I love the journey.
Helps to have people like you here, so much to learn by watching :clap:
And so much fun ..... in and out of feathers :evil: :lol:

I have had a very hard past year and I know all of you have been missing my acerbic commentary here :wink2: . I look in from time to time but I haven't had much time to post. I can't tell you how much I adore My Kathrin here. I can't tell you how flattered I was by her comments when I came across them while looking for Paul's progress photos and reading the double entendre, suggestive comments between Kathrin and Paul. I too, Paul as I've said many times, am astounded by Kathrin's amazing progress in such a short time. I want to assert as I've done many times that I had very little if anything to do with it. Kathrin is an extremely talented, dedicated and intelligent artist and the advancements she has made are a testament to that. I am honored that she thinks so highly of me but I personally doubt if I could wield a pencil with the grace that she does. I have never been disappointed in anything that she does. I'm sorry that I don't know acrylics that well but once again I am astounded at her rapid self -taught progress. I look forward to coming back here to WC very soon and abusing you all! :evil:

Tim

[Tim Taylor]

I am an expert in feathers :smug: ..... just not on the art side of it :evil: :wink2: :lol:

I would love to take you up on that photo offer tho :thumbsup: :clap: You are right, it would be a change and a challenge to boot :D

Jason is a really special artist. His work makes my jaw drop. But dont you bother playing your work down. You are far from winging it :clap:

It wasnt that Tim didnt approve. It was just that he figured he couldnt help me as much, if you get what I mean.
And anyway, his life is gone so busy, there is no time for little old me :o But he does give me tips and critique whenever he can, so I guess he didnt forget me completely yet.

I never forget you My Kathrin! :heart:

[skappy]

Wonderful work Paul I bet it is all chewed up and digested:clap: :clap: :clap:
Robert

[cardboardcutout]

Great finish Paul its stunning !!! Your pretty cute as well :)
Laura

[hunterpaul]

Great finish Paul its stunning !!! Your pretty cute as well :)
Laura
Laurie you have just made my day, I really really needed that, thank you. Paul

[online art]

Bloody good Paul!

Sorry I haven't been around here lately, moved internet providers to Sky so now SUPER fast 19meg! Now Wetcanvas has banned my IP because it's a low number, nothing to do with me, apparently LOTS have trouble, Talk Talk customers too. - they should sort it out as they are probably the biggest 2 providers in the UK!!!

Anyway found software that hides my IP from wetcanvas so I am back :)

Great painting, yes extending the grass up on our right would help balance the composition I would subtley point some grasses towards the cat there too, just to lead the eye in :) If you notice the pic with you on that right side actually looks more balanced, perhaps you could be sold WITH the painting ha....

[hunterpaul]

Bloody good Paul!

Sorry I haven't been around here lately, moved internet providers to Sky so now SUPER fast 19meg! Now Wetcanvas has banned my IP because it's a low number, nothing to do with me, apparently LOTS have trouble, Talk Talk customers too. - they should sort it out as they are probably the biggest 2 providers in the UK!!!

Anyway found software that hides my IP from wetcanvas so I am back :)

Great painting, yes extending the grass up on our right would help balance the composition I would subtley point some grasses towards the cat there too, just to lead the eye in :) If you notice the pic with you on that right side actually looks more balanced, perhaps you could be sold WITH the painting ha....
Sob sob sob.... I thought you had deserted me, sob sob..... I took the damned thing to the framers today, so it is as it is... It was in the way... next work is going to be on the canvas, I cant wait... Paul

[Kathrin G.]

.... I want to assert as I've done many times that I had very little if anything to do with it.....

what an understatement :eek: ...........:wink2: :heart:
I have much left to learn, but I learned more then I could have hoped for from you and I will be forever thankful. And the best thing is ..... you cant stop me :D :lol:



I look forward to coming back here to WC very soon and abusing you all! :evil:

Tim
Looking forward to it :clap: :lol:

[Kathrin G.]

I never forget you My Kathrin! :heart:

:heart: :D :heart:

[Kathrin G.]

Sob sob sob.... I thought you had deserted me, sob sob.....

awwwwww :grouphug: poor baby :heart: :grouphug:





..................:evil: ...................:lol:

[stirling]

A shame you waited for Jasons advice Paul,those longer grasses would have made a good painting into a great one!!

Best from mike.