Snoopy lives in New York and wanted to have his portrait taken. But he doesn't like to pose, so he had to choose among several shots, the most flattering position and expression. Even if it means modifying the backgrounds a little to make them more harmonious!
The support is a traditional Limoges porcelain tray.
After choosing the size and orientation of the subject in the frame, a first draft is drawn with a black pencil. The search for the animal's exact colors comes next. I always start painting the eyes, immediately giving the expression, because this expression will condition the intensity of the painting, and tell about the personnality of this dog.
A first firing (830°C) can take place when the essential lines are painted, then the details (hairs, shadows, opacity of the black) can be added to the first draft. The background is also drawn, the shadows on the ground if necessary, the flowers, and the colors.
With or without intermediate firing, the frame can be finished. Here I preferred a simple line, in order to avoid "smashing" the portrait with a plain band over the border. A net executed line with a brush, freehand, with a color inspired by the pretty flowerpots in this garden.
A small text, dedication or signature can still be reproduced on the back, according to the model provided by the customer.
And then comes the last firing ( 850°C) and the joy of opening the kiln next morning!
If you too would like to have an animal, a house, a boat or any other subject of your choice handpainted reproduction, contact me to establish a quote... You can choose the support, the size, the style, the colors ... The deadlines can vary from one week to one month, and the object can be sent anywhere in the world.
Hi, Snoopy! and have a nice trip...