Friday, February 3, 2012

Commission

This is a painting I just finished of two brothers snowboarding. My friend asked if I'd do a painting from a photo she had of her kids. Going in I had the usual apprehensions: stilted figures, tight work etc... but once I started on the canvas it all clicked. The challenge was keeping a loose style all the way through to the end. There were a couple of interesting style decisions to make: how far to go on the camouflage pants on the right (I went with the suggestion of camo) and whether to stick with actual rainbow-style goggles on the left (or keep them basic). I decided to basically be true to the photo as those are the clothes they and their parents will remember them wearing. And sometimes those bring back nice memories.  They haven't seen it yet - I think they are skiing this weekend : ) but I will call them Monday.
Because I love seeing process in the work of othes I decided to show the stages along the way!






10 comments:

Barbara Muir said...

Hi Kim,

A great painting -- so nice to have a painting of the kids in motion. And I love your process pictures.

Great work.

XO Barbara

Kelley Carey MacDonald said...

You did a great job - they will love this! Congratulations keeping it loose!

Elsie Rempel said...

Kim, this turned out wonderfully. It's so fluid you can almost see them flying down the hill. Great work!

Bluebells and Lavender said...

That's such a beautiful gift and a keepsake! Lovely painting, I'm sure they will love it! Sharon

Nancy Colella said...

I love seeing your process. I wouldn't have thought to paint the snow first! And I love the warm undertone. It really gives the paintings some drama! Just a great painting all the way around!

Maria's Watercolor said...

wonderfully done.....love the colors and to see the work in progress...

JanettMarie said...

Wow, you nailed it!
Nice job.

Virginia Floyd said...

Fabulous job, Kim! I love the lights and darks in the fabrics! Just wonderful!

And thanks for sharing your process!

Brad Miedema said...

They are going to love it Kim! I really enjoyed viewing the progression.

Anonymous said...

I love it ...I love it...it made me cry!! really cry...tears of joys! The painting is of my own kids and having it painted by a dear friend makes it even more special...Thanks so much Kim....you are truly amazing. We love it!!! Still crying...it's just wonderful!