In Deep Thought (Labrador painting)

In Deep Thought - 7" x 5" oil on hardboard/masonite

Well at last I am starting to recover from a horrible bout of 'flu and would like to thank those who sent good wishes.

Before I get working on commissions again, I thought I'd like to create a painting which would show one of the characteristics of dogs which I value very highly and this is their quality of spirit. I do believe that where dogs have lived in such very close proximity to humans for so very long a time, that they have developed a special quality of soul and are capable of a great depth of emotion which we do not normally associate with any other creatures than humans. I think the expression on this dog demonstrates this well.

Anne

Based on a photograph by Carlos94117 at flickr

Thoughtful - Chocolate Labrador Retriever

Thoughtful - 7" x 5" oil on hardboard/masonite

SOLD

Surely one of the hardest things about painting darker paintings in oils is getting an accurate photo of them! I have seen lots of different advice but I think that probably the only real answer is to have a proper lighting kit which is beyond those who aren't professional photographers. 

After about an hour I have managed to get a good representation of the original painting. It's been great fun to paint - I love the dog's thoughtful expression and of course one of my favourite pastimes - painting reflections!

Anne

With thanks to HeyRocker at Flickr for the reference photograph