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Benny's Work in Progress
Work in Progress Page 1	Work in Progress Page 2	Work in Progress Page 3	Work in Progress Page 4
Click on the last update to read more!
Mock Photo		Portrait Details
		Size: 9" x 13"
		Medium: Enhanced watercolor
		Breed: Shih Tzu
		Name: Benny
		Benny loved to hunt and retrieve grouse for his master.  Apparently, he had learned the skill himself. Quite unusual behavior for a lapdog I thought...but I agreed with the owner that this would be a great pose to remember and honor Benny.
Shih tzu picture for pet watercolor  painting
Update 1		Update 2
This is the preliminary sketch of Benny's portrait. I am using additional reference photographs of Benny and of ruffed grouse to capture the detail that is lacking in the mock-up pose.		You will notice that they eyes look much better once they are painted. A sketch sometimes really looks funny and it is hard to visualize what the final painting will look like, as is the case with Benny's portrait.
Update 3		Update 4
The feathers and pattern of the grouse are the most time consuming aspect of this portrait.  Here I've made the tail slightly longer as it didn't seem right on the sketch.		The portrait is advancing nicely. As you can see, the wings and back of the grouse are almost complete. I will then be adding the ground near Benny's feet and  this painting will be nearly finished!
Update 4		Finished Portrait-click to enlarge
After  few more touch ups, Benny and his prize catch are almost ready to come home!		After adding some fall color in the form of dried/fallen leaves, this portrait is now complete.