Trio of collies

I had really enjoyed drawing Homer, my dread of drawing had gone with my pain. No pain meant I could sit longer and really enjoy taking the time. However drawing the trio of collies was not as pleasurable!

I loved the look of the dogs, had enjoyed meeting two of them previously and their luxurious hair meant I could show light and dark which always helps with a portrait. Unfortunately one of the dogs I wasn’t going to be photographing or meeting and the photos weren’t quite as easy to read. Then there was the support….Velour is a curious paper. Do you remember the Sulvanian Family? They are/ were flocked plastic and the feel of them is very similar to Velour….kind of plush?

Usually used with pastel they give a real feel to fur drawings and the effect can be stunning. Unfortunately I react badly to pastels and whilst pencils work well on velour it is very unforgiving with pencils as you can erase or add to many layers ( you can add many layers with pastel).  So whilst drawing I was a puffy eyed, blotchy, itching mess. Delightful! The odd drawing I will do and as this family had commissioned me before and loved the specific look I achieved with velour, pastel and pencil I went with it.

I was of course pleased with the finish result and the lady who received the gift was over the moon at having her favourite dogs on paper adorning her wall. It made my last commission before Christmas a delight as it was small ( I do love a small intimate drawing) and back to my favourite combination of pastel paper support with coloured pencil medium.

I hope you enjoy the picture unfolding and the finished piece and see which style you prefer!