Wildlife Art and Pet Portraits by Canadian Nature & Animal Artist Colette Theriault

Timber Wolf Painting in Pastel ~ Dreaming of Eden

2012-02-01T17:05:00.000-05:00

After today's work in the studio, I have reached that point of not wanting to work on this painting anymore for fear of turning it muddy. I am sure any painting could be worked to death, looking for further improvements, but I have to call this wolf portrait done!

The title I chose is self explanatory...I can't help but feel for the plight of the wolf since no animal has been persecuted so cruelly throughout history and continues to be to this day.

The wolf portrayed in this painting lives at Kisma Preserve , Mount Desert, Maine. He was rescued as a pup from people who were keeping him illegally and unfortunately, due to his age and tameness, could not be released back into the wild. I had the opportunity to meet and photograph him and his cage mate last August so watch for more wolf paintings to come!

"Dreaming of Eden"
~ Timber Wolf Painting~
Size: approx. 13" x 15"
Medium: pastel

WIP #9 of wolf painting...more pine needles!

2012-01-27T15:56:00.000-05:00

I decided to leave the "paw" alone for a while. It was determined upon further examination of my various references that the wolf's leg is all we would see with the painting cropped the way it is...so no more worries about that paw!

From my last update, you can see that I continued the pine needles to the left of the painting. I also added an evergreen seedling on the vertical edge of the painting for added interest. I still have a bit of detail to add to the white area of body fur near the seedling, and of course, I have to finish that foreleg!

WIP #8 of wolf painting...a bit of greenery

2012-01-26T12:21:00.000-05:00

After putting much thought into how I was going to draw the foreground, I decided that a blanket of pine needles interspersed with some vegetation would suffice. I did not like the lawn type grass that was on the original reference photo because it reminded me of the captive situation of the wolf in question.

I'm not quite sure how I am going to handle the wolf's paw yet. I want to draw the whole paw as opposed to it being partially hidden by vegetation (like on my reference)... but that would mean I have to sift through hundreds of photos to find a suitable reference which I may not find!

WIP #7 of wolf painting

2012-01-25T15:10:00.000-05:00

After spending a whole afternoon doing website updates on my main site (and other time consuming shores around the house), I am now back in the studio, at least for the remainder of this day.

In this step of the wolf portrait, I've added more of the body fur to the left and also added more detail to the short fur on top of the wolf's head. You might have noticed that the shape of the muzzle is slightly distorted at the tip but this is only temporary, as you will soon find out.

WIP #6 of wolf painting

2012-01-21T10:31:00.000-05:00

In this step, now that the other ear has been added, the subject is beginning to look more like the wolf it should be. I like to pass that stage of a painting as it gives me a visual overview which makes it easier for me to determine if the subject is turning out like I want it to.

WIP #5 of wolf painting

2012-01-18T20:40:00.001-05:00

Well, I did set out to do what I intended for today and that was to complete the wolf's left ear. During the next sitting, I plan on continuing laying down the fur of the cheek and then starting the other ear.

WIP #4 of wolf painting

2012-01-18T14:13:00.001-05:00

In today's sitting, I decided to finish the upper part of the painting. I think I should best work the ears next and then continue to add the layers to the fur on top of the head. In this manner, I will avoid working over top of already finished areas.
The image below represents the approximate dimensions of what will be the finished piece.

WIP #3 of wolf painting

2012-01-17T20:30:00.000-05:00

Ah, what a good day I've had in the studio! I feel like I could go on all night but think it's best I take a break and rest my eyes and back! It feels good working on something that I can't put down...I just hope it lasts....

WIP #2 of wolf painting

2012-01-17T16:20:00.000-05:00

This afternoon, I've been really hacking away at laying down the fur, making sure to follow the direction of the hair growth. Of course, this is just the base coat and many more layers are to be added!

New Wildlife Painting on the Easel

2012-01-17T12:00:00.000-05:00

Now that I have all my current commissions done, I can concentrate on working on some pieces for my upcoming show in May 2012. I want to have a few more new paintings to hang, and decided to tackle the larger pieces first.

The sleeping wolf I am portraying is one I had the pleasure to meet and photograph last August at a wildlife sanctuary in Maine. I am using pastels on light gray suede board.

Pug Portrait Painting in Pastel

2012-01-16T15:01:00.002-05:00

While it is not often that I can complete a portrait in one day and be satisfied with it, I am hoping that the client approves this one so that I can move on to my next project of another "furry" nature....details to come soon!

"Mic" ~pug
pastel on suede
7" x 5"

New dog portrait

2012-01-16T12:11:00.000-05:00

I started this pug portrait today and unfortunately, all I have to work with are either blurry photos, photos that have bad eye glare from the camera flash or photos that are too small to work with. It seems to be coming along rather well though and I hope the client approves what I have done so far.

Commemorative Artwork (Drawing) of US Army k-9 Police Handler and his Military Working Dog

2012-01-10T15:15:00.001-05:00

It has been a while since my last post and some of you might have been wondering what was on my easel? I started this commission last April and although I was given over a year to complete it, I felt it's completion was long overdue.
The drawing features Military K-9 Police handler Sgt Chris Lalonde and his dog U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Fasco. The pair participated in a historic tandem jump from a CH-47 Chinook helicopter at an altitude of 12,500 feet, Sept. 18, 2009. The jump took place at the Gammon Parade Field on Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. during Military Police Warfighter Week.

Sgt Chris Lalonde & Sgt Major Fasco
Pencil Drawing
11" x 14"

Pet Portrait Gift Certificates for Christmas Present

2011-12-31T12:00:00.001-05:00

For those who are looking for a last minute gift for that special someone, it is never too late to order a pet portrait gift certificate. No need to wait for it to arrive in the mail, my gift certificates can be printed at home on your computer in just a few clicks of the mouse and voila! Here is an example of one of my pet portrait certificates:

You can order your gift certificate for an orginal pet portrait in any amount you choose here:

http://www.colettetheriault.com/giftcertificate.php

Happy Holidays to all!

2011-12-23T13:57:00.000-05:00

American Bulldog Pencil Portrait in Graphite (enhanced)

2011-12-12T20:47:00.002-05:00

While I await client approval, I wanted to share with you this dog portrait's new "look" with the darker background. I really feel this is what was missing to make the dog stand out from the page, whereas before, he seemed to blend too much with the background. You can probably notice on this update the subtle hint of color (used colored pencils) of the eyes, eye patch and muzzle.

"Pearl"~American Bulldog
graphite pencil /charcoal and cp on Fabriano paper
10"x10"

To view the progression of this portrait visit my website at
http://www.colettetheriault.com/descriptions/workinprogess/American_Bulldog_wip.php

Pencil Portrait Step 7: the chest

2011-12-12T19:12:00.000-05:00

Well, this is it! The fur has been completed on the neck and chest area. It was amazing to draw those tiny hairs and to follow the direction of the hair growth, especially at the central "cow lick".

I have decided that the background should be darker still and so off the the easel I go!

Pencil Portrait Step 6: the collar

2011-12-09T15:51:00.001-05:00

I have always found it challenging to achieve an accurate representation of a graphite pencil portrait using a scanner (or camera for that matter). For this update I decide to scan the portrait rather than take a digital photo. Although I could have further adjusted this scan for correctness using Photoshop, I much rather wait till the end and spend time drawing . The shinny reflective quality of the pencils is what makes it difficult; one scan can come out one way, while the simple act of repositioning the portrait on the glass will result in a different scan!

Pet Portrait Step 5: the mouth and chin

2011-12-08T16:06:00.002-05:00

You can't see the detail very well on this update but there actually is some hint of pink color on the muzzle, around the right eye and inside the ears. The eyes and marking around the left eye also have some brown tints. I call this type of portrait "enhanced graphite" due to the additional hints of colored pencil application.

Pet Portrait Step 4: the wrinkles and an ear

2011-12-08T14:13:00.001-05:00

While it may not seem like the portrait has advanced significantly since my last post, I did put quite a bit of time on what I have done so far. My method consists of indenting fine hairs with my pencil, burnishing, erasing and then applying additional layers of graphite on top of the previous.
I continue (not always in that particular order) until the desired tonal value and level of detail is achieved. This may also require me to go back to previously finished areas to adjust the overall tone of the portrait.

I do find the process more time consuming on a white dog due to the fact that the images I work with are almost always of low contrast and the subtleties in the lighter tones or values are more difficult to adjust.

Pencil Portrait Step 3: the muzzle

2011-12-07T21:37:00.001-05:00

In this sitting, I have mainly worked the nose and muzzle area but also started to work the fur on the right side of the dog's face and the wrinkles on the forehead. I will probably complete the top of the dog's head next to prevent smudging as I work my way down. I always use a clean piece of white paper as a hand guard but prefer to work around previously worked areas.

Pencil Portrait Step 2: the eyes and nose

2011-12-07T20:13:00.001-05:00

Although I did start working the dog's right ear first, an overwhelming feeling to draw the eyes almost always overcomes me. I feel compelled to finish the eyes first as it gives me a good idea if I was able to capture the character of my subject effectively. They say that the eyes are the window to the soul;only once I am satisfied that the eyes are perfect, can I then move on to work other areas, usually the nose.

Excuse the bad image...graphite never really does scan or photograph very well due to the reflective nature of the medium. I'll try to do better on the next update.

Pencil Portrait Step 1: Background

2011-12-07T12:01:00.000-05:00

Last night, I began the preparatory work for my next dog commission. This included creating a mock image using Photoshop, printing out a life size b/w copy and selecting the paper (in this case, I chose Fabriano Artistico paper). Since my subject is mainly white, I decided to start with the darker background and then apply a workable fixative to prevent smudging on the white areas. Before spraying, I masked the dog using the paper cutout from my b/w copy to avoid getting the fixative on the virgin areas. Through experience, I have found that fixative will change the attribute of the paper, hence affecting the appearance of additional layers of graphite.

The paper cutout was also useful for masking when I worked the background.

Change of pace

2011-12-06T20:51:00.004-05:00

It seems my eagle portrait will have to take the back seat for a while due to an unexpected commission; probably just as well because I was getting very frustrated with it today and it almost was shredded and dumped in the garbage bin.

On a brighter note, I added the finishing touches and scanned the Appaloosa portrait since it was approved by the client. I share with you the final version of the horse in pastel.

"Bally"~Appaloosa Horse Portrait
pastel on suede
18"x14"

To view the progression of this painting please visit my website here:

http://www.colettetheriault.com/descriptions/workinprogess/Appaloosa_wip.php

In my next post will feature the beginings of another dog portrait; this time using graphite pencils enhanced with color. I love the pose the client chose and I sense it will be a reall "winner" portrait due to her cute looks! Stay tunned!!

More Bird Feathers

2011-12-02T16:24:00.003-05:00

Painting realistic bird feathers can be challenging at best and working with pastels is no exception. I, for one, have come to realize that I have grown to dislike painting feathers, especially more so after working this piece to death! I consider this another exercise; one that has forced me to practice something I dislike and truly frustrates me. I hope this bird painting does not find it's way in my "behind the door" pile...

More on the eagle painting...

2011-11-29T22:30:00.000-05:00

I have not been able to work on this piece for a few days but it did feel nice to hop in the seat at the easel again. Although it does not look like I have achieved much work on the bird, there is a significant amount of time spent blending and shaping the pastel on the paper; something that simply cannot be rushed.

I hope you enjoy following my updates as much as I enjoy sharing them with you!

Another bird painting on the easel

2011-11-25T20:16:00.001-05:00

For my next project, I thought it would be exciting to create a nontraditional composition of a familiar birds' cropped face, close-up.
Many of you might recognize this national iconic bird already, with only just the eye showing. Once again, I am using a variety of pastel pencils on archival sanded paper.

Black Capped Chickadee Painting

2011-11-24T14:23:00.009-05:00

For this composition, I used two of my reference photographs and rearranged/re sized the birds and tree branch/trunk until I reached a desirable composition. I originally had come up with 4 different poses but finally decided on this particular one since the position of the birds and tree recreated the most pleasing and balanced arrangement.

I am delighted to have been able to complete this painting in a relatively short time!

"Two's Company" ~ Black Capped Chickadees
pastel on archival sanded paper
14" x 11"

To view the progression of this painting, visit my website here:
http://www.colettetheriault.com/descriptions/workinprogess/Chickadees_wip.php

Today's update on the chickadee painting

2011-11-22T18:40:00.000-05:00

I have worked more of the birch bark on this step and slowly working my way to the right and downwards to prevent smudging the pastel. Accidental smudging is much more of an issue when working pastels on sandpaper as opposed to using suede or velour. But then, one can easily blend the pastel on the sandpaper; virtually impossible on the flock type surface of the velour and suede.

Chickadee painting step 4

2011-11-21T20:43:00.000-05:00

As an animal artist who paints mainly fur, I have to admit that I am finding that recreating the birch bark on this scene is a refreshing change. I can't say that it is easy to follow the intricacies of the bark on the reference and then reproduce them on paper...it's probably because I am not used to drawing trees. So forcing myself to do so is a great exercise (which is what I consider this painting to be).

Step 3 of Chickadee bird painting

2011-11-19T12:18:00.000-05:00

I am not quite finished the second bird on this update as I decided to add some of the background color of the birch trunk to help me evaluate my values. I am looking forward to start working on the birch bark detail and hope it won't present too much of a challenge but I am ready for it!

Step 2 of Chickadee bird painting

2011-11-18T20:17:00.000-05:00

With the background now complete, I have begun to add the details of one of the main subjects. Being right handed, it makes sense to work the bird on the branch on the left hand side first, to avoid smudging the painting as I work my way across.

Working backgrounds with pastels

2011-11-17T22:59:00.000-05:00

I am happy to share that the horse portrait is now complete and waiting client approval! I will share the final scan of the work once I am sure that no other touch ups are needed, I promise!

Feeling a sense of relief, and wanting to indulge in my own creativity, I am now working on a wildlife bird scene of two black-capped chickadees. Since I received my order from Blick today, why not try my new Rembrandt's on the Colorfix Plein Air Painting Board?

After printing and cutting the outline of my subjects, I worked the background first, spreading the pastel with my fingers (I use finger cots now!) all the while using the cut-out paper as a guide and a mask. This is an easy and fast way to work backgrounds while keeping the area that needs to be free of color still virgin. I have included the two images below to illustrate my point.

-completed background with cut-out (grey-scale)

-background completed with cut-out removed leaving clean area with crisp edges

Revisiting the Horse Portrait

2011-11-15T18:29:00.002-05:00

I was fortunate to have had the chance to put this portrait aside in order to work on Christmas orders. I have a very patient client and am so thankful for her understanding! Since I am caught up somewhat on my work, I have decided that, since there is so little work (relatively speaking!) left to do to on this portrait, it deserves to be finished. And so, here is the latest update I have so far. Let's hope on the next update the shoulder area will be filled in and the customer will have approved her painting!

Tri-colored Shetland Sheepdog Painting in Pastel

2011-11-13T16:21:00.005-05:00

In today's sitting I manged to sit long enough to complete the sheltie portrait. I still need to scan a high resolution copy for my files, as well as spray a light layer of fixative. I usually fix the pastel if it needs to be shipped out and, especially if there are muptiple layers of color. I find that white tends to be the worst pastel for dusting off.

"Cody" ~ Tri-colored Shetland Sheepdog Portrait
pastel on velour
11" x 14"

To view the progression of this portrait please visit my website here:

http://www.colettetheriault.com/descriptions/workinprogess/Sheltie_wip.php

That Sheltie tongue!

2011-11-09T21:32:00.000-05:00

I never thought that a dog's tongue could be so difficult to portray...the intricate groves and subtle tones and highlights along with the many different positions (it is a complex muscle!) means one has to really study it (and practice) in order to paint it realistically! It did not help that my reference photo had the muzzle (including the tongue and teeth) out of focus which made it that much more difficult.

Update on Sheltie portrait

2011-11-09T16:11:00.000-05:00

I love drawing the markings, colors and fluffy long fur of shelties; their good looks make them handsome subjects for portraits. This one is referred to as a tri-colored Shetland sheepdog because of his black, sable and white coat (white chest not yet visible).

On the next stage, I hope to have the mouth completed.

Gone to the dogs!

2011-11-09T13:47:00.000-05:00

As my blogger and artist friend, Gary Keimig commented on one of my previous posts, it seems I have gone to the dogs. With yet another canine commission on the easel, I am busy getting portraits to their owners just in time for the Holidays. I share with you a few snap shots of the preliminary sketch and of the beginning of my next pastel k9 portrait.

Two sleeping buddies

2011-11-08T19:15:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I was able to complete the portrait of the two dogs resting on the sofa. I have included a close up to show the details of their cute faces.

Pastel on suede

18" x 14"

Dogs in pastel continued...

2011-11-03T18:26:00.000-04:00

Here's a bit more that I completed on today's sitting. It won't be long until I start to work the detail of the sofa.

Dog portrait progress

2011-11-02T17:19:00.002-04:00

I am so excited to have started working on the second dog! While the coat color is different than the lab, it does provides me with the opportunity to apply a different technique to recreate the fur thus avoiding monotony.
The texture and pattern on the sofa will probably be the most challenging aspect of this piece so I reserve that for last. I have included the reference photo so that you can see the transformation of the "flash eye" effect that ruins so many pet photos. I did use a few other reference photos of the dog that were taken outside in natural light (showing much better eye detail) to help me capture the likeness of his eyes.

One more update...

2011-10-31T17:32:00.001-04:00

I am pleased to say that I managed to sit long enough today to complete the first dog on this portrait. I have had many distractions lately and find it difficult to concentrate long enough to get a significant amount of drawing done. With tonight being Halloween, I figure I'd try to get most of the work done during the day. Let's hope I can get this one completed by the end of the week.

Happy Halloween everyone!

Dog portrait continued...

2011-10-31T12:40:00.000-04:00

Here's another update of the current commission on my easel. I am hoping to complete the rest of the fur on the golden mixbreed today.

The start of a new dog portrait

2011-10-30T19:03:00.004-04:00

After some time away from the blog world, I now have some free time to post an update of my next commission; this time of two lovely mix breed dogs resting on their favorite spot aka the family sofa.
For this piece, I am using mainly Rembrandt's pastels along with various brands of pastel pencils on grey colored suede board. You can see the mottling effect (all of which will disappear since the whole painting will be covered in pastel) of the suede on the image below.

American Eskimo (Miniature) Dog Montage Portrait in Pastel

2011-10-18T20:47:00.001-04:00

The following dog portrait commission was done using soft pastels on sand colored Hahnemule velour board.

"Sadie"

18"x14"

pastel

Today's studio work

2011-10-14T20:16:00.004-04:00

Seems the rainy weather is keeping me inside again today which turns out to be a good thing. This means I am not tempted to leave the studio and avoid what needs to be done! The distractions of working at home can become too great at times and it takes much discipline to keep on track. With that said, here is where the American Eskimo montage portrait is at. I am almost done the central pose with only a few more touch ups to do then I move to the last smaller pose.

Step 3 of Dog Montage Portrait

2011-10-13T15:45:00.000-04:00

In this sitting, I completed the third pose of the puppy running in the grass. The original reference image was rather small and blurry so it did present it's challenges. Nonetheless, I feel the lack of sharpness on the drawing accentuates the feel of movement as the dog hops along the ground.

The next step I will begin to work on the larger, main pose of the Miniature American Eskimo.

Dog Montage Portrait update

2011-10-12T21:54:00.004-04:00

Today, I managed to complete two of the smaller poses. Most likely, I will start on the bottom left one next, before I begin the larger, main central pose. You might notice that one eye is missing on the top left pose. Unfortunately, Sadie lost an eye in her golden years but she is just as beautiful!

Portrait of Dog Montage Stage 1

2011-10-11T23:19:00.001-04:00

This commission of a miniature American Eskimo will feature a main central pose surrounded by 4 smaller poses of the dog depicting special moments in her life. I will be posting the progress of this portrait on my blog and website so please do come back and visit!

German Short Haired Pointer Portrait in Pastel

2011-10-06T21:01:00.005-04:00

Portrait of "Kaiser"~German Short Haired Pointer

Pastel on fine sandpaper

10"x8"

To view the work in progress of this portrait please visit:

http://www.colettetheriault.com/descriptions/workinprogess/Pointerwip.php

More progress on dog portait

2011-10-06T15:26:00.002-04:00

I am hoping to have this commission completed before the end of this week as I have reached the homestretch phase of the portrait. This is always the most exciting time for me when everything comes together and the dog suddenly seems to spring to life on the paper.

Dog breed hints: German/hunting

Next Dog Commission

2011-09-29T15:36:00.002-04:00

I have paused working on the horse portrait as I wait word from the client in regards to the background. In the mean time, I thought I'd share a few work in progress steps of one of my Christmas commissions. I've decided to use black sandpaper as a support for the pastel since the dog is mainly black. I love working light over dark and jump at the opportunity to do so.

Any guesses as to the breed? It is not a Lab.

Horse Pastel Painting update

2011-09-24T21:22:00.000-04:00

In this step, I pretty much have completed the horse's neck and mane. During the next sitting, I move on to the shoulder and leg area before adding the reins last.

Lesson in Horse Anatomy

2011-09-22T15:24:00.001-04:00

Observation and understanding of the key underlying muscle, nerve and bone tissue can prove extremely useful when drawing horses. These structures easily show through the relatively thin skin and velvety short fur of these animals and the appearance will vary depending on the breed, age and stance of the horse. In this step, I continued building up color in the horse's neck and began defining the major muscle groups that are so distinctive of equines. You can also see the beginnings of the highlights of the glossy sheen on the coat.

Weekend Workshop and Horse Portrait back on the easel

2011-09-15T20:01:00.005-04:00

Workshop at the PAClubhouse

Beautiful work from the participants!

Last weekend I spent 2 days teaching a workshop demonstrating Graphite Pet Portraiture Techniques to members of the Porcupine Art Club in Timmins, Ontario. It was fun to meet artists old and new and judging from the results, it looked like everybody enjoyed themselves! I look forward to traveling to Timmins again for yet another workshop...

After a stint with a back problem, I am back at the easel working on this gorgeous Appaloosa Portrait. I am really enjoying painting the rich colors of his coat using my pastels; mostly Rembrandt's, Carbothello's and Nu Pastels.

Work in Progress Horse Pastel Painting

2011-09-01T21:23:00.000-04:00

I am quite happy at how much I was able to accomplish today on this horse portrait. It seems that finding the right colors (pure or blended) is always the most difficult part of a painting, esp. when using pastels. I find it useful to write down or sort which pastels I use for a particular painting, or even a section of a painting.

Overdue update!

2011-09-01T16:37:00.000-04:00

Feels like forever since my last post but so much has been going on here that I just did not have the time to update my blog. Business and personal life just kept getting in the way!

For starters, I just returned from a 20 day trip from USA and Eastern Canada. Our family and I traveled to Lake Placid, New York with the next stop being Bar Harbour, Maine were we visited spectacular Acadia National Park. While in Maine, I also had the opportunity to photograph native wildlife on a preserve while being up close to the animals. Being inside a wolf enclosure sure was an amazing experience and the poses I was able to capture will surely become some of my next painting projects. Bears, tigers, lynx, deer and moose were some of the other animals I was able to photograph at the preserve. I have all the inspiration I need now!!

The second part of our trip, we returned to Canada and travelled to Nova Scotia and camped on the Bay of Fundy in Grand Pre. A good friend of ours was getting married so we had a whole week to explore the province! The highlight of that stay was probably photographing and filming the thousands of migratory plovers and sandpipers that feed off the rich invertebrates found in the mud of the Bay of Fundy. The most exciting moment was watching the swift (and rare!!) peregrine falcons bomb diving the flock of birds in an attempt for a kill. Wow, these birds are fast!!

The trip home was exciting as well since we had to plow through the remnants of hurricane Irene...it seems it rained forever and the winds were so strong, swaying the truck and trailer at times so hard that it felt we were in a boat (and getting queasy)! Oh, and I should mention the hydroplaning was an experience as well...I am thankful for hubby for being such a great driver!

Just before leaving for my trip, I completed another commission of a dog for a client in Newfoundland. This is a Shih Tzu nammed Hannah, 11x14, graphite on Fabriano paper.

And now that I am back, I was able to try out my new glass top drafting table and daylight lamp while I started working on my next commission of a horse (pastel on green suede).

I am happy to be back at the easel!!

La Cloche Juried Art Show 2011

2011-07-01T18:54:00.001-04:00

This year again, I was lucky to have my three entries accepted into the 34th Annual La Cloche Art Show in Whitefish Falls, Ontario. I was also delighted to learn that my painting "Treading Ever-So Lightly" placed second in the pastel category and my drawing of "The Three Amigos" placed second in the drawing/cp category.

My deer painting in pastel "Treading Ever-So Lightly" finished second place

My drawing "The Three Amigos" placed second in the drawing category.

My third entry, "Angel Feathers", pastel.

Thanks to my good friend Ray Thoms for supplying the La Cloche photos!

Onaping Falls Art Club Pastel Workshop

2011-06-28T13:57:00.002-04:00

Last May I was invited to instruct a pastel workshop for members for the Onaping Falls Art Club. Participants learned to use soft pastel on archival suede board by painting a tulip and a day lily. View the beautiful work each artist created:

artist Elaine Henning

artist Rosella Leclair

artist Jo Anne Parker

artist Karen Gratton

Artist Francine Aubin

Artist Dawn Searson

Onaping Falls artists hard at work during my Pastel on Suede Workshop

artist Gisele Demers

artist Kertu Rychlowski

artist Navaida Howe

artist Sheliah Chavarie

artists Bernice Shea and Shirley Mirka

Skye Terrier Dog Portrait in Pencil

2011-06-08T16:16:00.000-04:00

It has been fairly busy around here lately and I do apologize for the lack of posts...shows, workshops, commissions and personal commitments have kept me from blogging. Here is the latest drawing of a Skye Terrier mix done using graphite pencils. I like the idea of the vignette on this piece and find it suits the portrait well.

"Lily"
11" x 14"
graphite pencil

COMMISSION

Art in Bloom

2011-05-28T21:33:00.001-04:00

Next Sunday, I will be exhibiting at the Canadian Mental Health "Art In Bloom" Show and Strawberry Social to take place at The Minnow Lake Centre, Sudbury. I was asked to donate a piece for the silent auction and since spring flowers are blooming everywhere, I thought the folowing painting would fit the theme well...

"Orange Crush"

pastel on velour

7" x 5"

The Results are In...re: Help with submission...

2011-05-17T11:24:00.004-04:00

UPDATE TO THIS POST>>>;A HUGE thank you to all who were able to participate in my survey! Scroll to each image to view the results...

I am entering some artwork in a local juried show and am having a hard time deciding which one to submit. If you could help me in choosing what you consider to be my very best works, I would REALLY appreciate it!! Please send my a comment with your three choices. Many thanks in advance to those who participate. I have another few weeks to decide on THREE paintings out of the bunch.

Please pick your favorite 3 works out of the following nine choices:

24 votes

0 votes

16 votes

8 votes

5 votes

26 votes

5 votes

12 votes

17 votes

Pastel Workshop in Timmins

2011-05-16T12:35:00.000-04:00

This past weekend I had the pleasure to give a workshop for members of the Porcupine Art Club in Timmins, Ontario. Everyone seemed eager and delighted to finally have the opportunity to dabble in pastels with the guidance of an instructor (the club workshop convener had been nudging me for the past few years...thanks Pam!). Each artist worked very hard and to my surprise, everyone managed to begin a second piece; many which were completed before the end of day two.

The results speak for themselves! I am so proud of what they accomplished in such a short time.

Day 1 Results

Day 2 Results

Duck Painting makes the cut!

2011-05-10T15:11:00.004-04:00

I was pleasantly surprised yesterday to find out that my painting "Take Off" was one of the 50 works chosen for the RBC Dominion Securities Art Impact Juried Art Show!! This year's theme entitled "Water" is in recognition of the important work that the Vale Living with Lakes Centre does to conserve and protect our freshwater resources. The opening of the show is to coincide with the official opening of the new state-of-the-art research facility at Laurentian University on the shores of Lake Ramsey, Sudbury.

Tortoiseshell (Dilute) Short Haired Cat Portrait Painting

2011-03-30T14:51:00.008-04:00

Cat Portrait of "Spanky"

Medium: Pastel

Support: Archival Suede

Size: 7" x 5"

COMMISSION

To view the work in progress of this cat painting in pastel please visit http://www.colettetheriault.com/

Canada Bunchberry Painting

2011-03-22T13:54:00.006-04:00

"Spring's Promise"

3" x 5" ~ pastel on sandpaper

click here for purchase information

to view the work in progress of this painting please visit:

www.colettetheriault.com

Mute Swan Bird Artwork New!

2011-03-16T15:48:00.008-04:00

Title: "Quiet Time"

Medium: Colored Pencil

Support: Uart Sanded paper

Size: 5" x 3"

Species: Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)

SOLD

To view this work in progress please visit: http://www.colettetheriault.com/descriptions/workinprogess/mute_swan_wip.php

Bohemian Waxwing Drawing on Uart sandpaper

2011-03-14T15:41:00.012-04:00

Title: "Late Winter Feast"
Medium: Colored Pencil

Support: Uart Sanded Paper

Size: 5" x 3"

Species: Bombycilla garrulus

SOLD

To view the work in progress of this drawing, please visit: www.colettetheriault.com

Step 2 Bird drawing

2011-03-14T12:18:00.004-04:00

In this sitting I have completed the bird's head and started adding the base color for the rest of the body. I find it interesting how I am able to layer the colored pencils rather easily on the sandpaper.

A new venture...colored pencil exploration

2011-03-13T23:06:00.004-04:00

Step 1 of bird drawing

Reference image of waxwing: A few days ago, we had a flock of Bohemian waxwings attack the local crabapple trees during a heavy snow storm. I tried to stand still (and invisible) with my camera in hand and it was snowing so hard that the the birds never really bother with me. When the snow let up just a little, I was able to get the shot of this hungry bird devouring the last of the previous season's bounty.

After seeing fellow artist bloggers' lovely work using colored pencil and Uart sanded paper, I always knew I had to give it a try. I've used Uart before with pastels and immediately fell in love with the fine toothed paper but also knew that I had a prime candidate to experiment with different media.

Orange Daylily Painting (pastel)

2011-03-11T19:44:00.005-05:00

I've been wanting to work a smaller piece and so was able to complete this one in only one day! I was dying to try my new set of Koh-I-Noor Toison D'Or Extra Soft Pastels and I absolutely loved the smoothness and richness of colors.

Title: "One Day at a Time"
Medium: Pastel
Support: Archival Suede
Size: 7" x 5"

SOLD

To view the step by step work in progress of this botanical painting, please visit my website www.colettetheriault.com

Golden Retriever Portrait (Pastel Painting)

2011-03-10T13:44:00.008-05:00

Title: Mosby

Medium: Pastel

Support: Archival Suede

Size: 10" x 8'

COMMISSION

To read more about this dog portrait, please visit my website http://www.colettetheriault.com/

Step 4 Dog Portrait update

2011-03-10T12:09:00.003-05:00

In this sitting I was able to complete the ear and start the fur on the body and leg in the foreground. I still have to draw in more detail in the foreleg before I finish the snow...

Step 3 Dog in Pastel

2011-03-07T20:39:00.004-05:00

Time for one more update before retiring from the studio tonight. I am quite happy with the progress I was able to achieve today as it is not often that a portrait develops this quickly. Seems there are too many distractions at times!

Step 2 of Dog Painting

2011-03-07T15:36:00.003-05:00

I am happy with how much I have done so far this afternoon, especially considering there is a lot of layering and fine work on the facial fur.

What's on my easel now?

2011-03-07T12:34:00.004-05:00

Step 1 of Dog Portrait.

Here is the beginning of my next commission. Looks like this canine is having some fun playing in the snow!

Sphynx (Hairless) Cat Painting in Pastel

2011-03-03T11:20:00.012-05:00

Title: Teeky

Medium: Pastel

Support: Archival Suede Board

Size: 8" x 10"

COMMISSION

read more about this cat portrait on my website: http://www.colettetheriault.com/descriptions/petdescriptions/Sphinx_Cat_Painting.php

Step 3-Sphynx cat portrait in progress

2011-03-01T20:32:00.004-05:00

Most of the detail on the cat's face is complete in this stage. I'll probably go back to the face and touch up here and there and then defining the wrinkles under her chin and throat. So finishing up the wrinkles and adding the rest of the coat will be my next step.

Well, it's lights off in the studio for today...let's hope I have the chance at another sitting tomorrow to finish off this unusual portrait.

Step 2-Sphynx cat portrait in progress

2011-03-01T17:11:00.004-05:00

Here's more on the hairless cat portrait that is currently on my easel.

Before I continue to add the details on the cat's face I will complete the ears and top of the head.

Cat Portrait On The Easel

2011-03-01T14:48:00.005-05:00

Here's the start on my newest commission; a special breed of exotic cat. I've included the original reference photograph below.

It should be easy enough to recognize the hairless or Sphynx breed.

Shetland Sheepdog Portrait in Pastel

2011-02-27T22:48:00.007-05:00

Title: "Mickey"

Medium: pastel

Support: archival suede board

Size: 12" x 9"

COMMISSION

read more about this dog portrait on my website: www.colettetheriault.com

Dog Portrait in Pastel- Step 7

2011-02-24T20:00:00.006-05:00

I haven't posted in a while...things were quite hectic here at home and I haven't had time to work on Mickey's portrait in the past week and a half.

I did manage to start working on the paws and rest of the body and should start the intricate carpet work next.

Step 6- dog in pastel

2011-02-10T15:48:00.004-05:00

I am really enjoying adding the long fur of this sheltie. For those who are curious, I am using a combination of soft, round pastel sticks as well as pastel pencils and a touch of verithin colored pencils for the finer detail. I especially love the extra soft white stick (Rembrandt) for the brightest white one could possibly achieve on the suede.

Step 5-Sheltie portrait in progress

2011-02-08T19:53:00.006-05:00

Now that I have picked out all of the correct colors of pastel pencils to render the fur, I make sure to keep them separate from the rest! There is nothing more frustrating than accidentally mixing your usable colors and then trying to figure out again which ones worked for your painting. I sometimes also write down the number and brand just in case they do get mixed up. With over 500 pastel pencils at my disposal, it quickly becomes apparent why one should make a habit of it.

Step 4-Shetland Sheepdog Portrait

2011-02-08T12:26:00.003-05:00

In this sitting I continue to draw the dog's face, working my way outwards. I'll probably have to draw the ears next in order to avoid dirtying the rest of the portrait.

Update on Sheltie portrait

2011-02-07T21:58:00.003-05:00

Slowly but surely, this sweet little dog is "coming to life" on paper. The most difficult aspect of this painting will be to depict the coat's colors and markings. There's lots more work left to be done but this is my last update for today. Have a good evening!

Dog commission on the easel

2011-02-07T15:10:00.007-05:00

Here is the next dog portrait I am currently working on. I am using a light beige suede board as a support for the pastel.

Reference image of dog portrait

Step one- line drawing of dog

Step 2- addition of background

Next I'll be starting the fun part of adding the facial features of the dog!

White German Shepherd Portrait in Pastel

2011-02-05T13:36:00.008-05:00

Portrait of "Dena"

Medium: pastel

Support: archival suede

Size: 8" x 10"

COMMISSION

Step 4-White Shepherd

2011-02-04T15:49:00.007-05:00

I completed the ears at this sitting but might go back and darken the shadows slightly. Also on this image, you can see a base layer has been applied to the upped neck and nape area. More to come soon!

Step 3 White Shepherd Portrait

2011-02-02T20:30:00.005-05:00

During today's sitting, i was able to complete the dog's muzzle and mouth. I will now progress to the top of the dog's head and ears before continuing to the throat and neck area.

Step 2-White German Shepherd

2011-02-01T21:09:00.006-05:00

Well folks, this is the last update as I shut the lights and lay down my pastels for today. Before heading to bed, I managed to add the nose and eye and even started adding the facial fur. In the next step, I will finish the mouth and muzzle before I most likely move on to the ears and top of the head.

Step 1-White Shepherd Portrait

2011-02-01T18:46:00.004-05:00

In this sitting I laid down the blurred out background, being careful not to dirty the space where the white shepherd's head occupies. The mottling effect seen on the tan area of the dog's head is the subtle pattern found on the suede board itself.

Dog Painting Commission

2011-01-28T21:31:00.005-05:00

Here's the mock-up reference for my next project on the easel. I'm happy that I will be playing with my pastels again!

Dog in Graphite Workshop

2011-01-27T19:51:00.008-05:00

Last night I had the opportunity to give a workshop to members of the local Sudbury Art Club which I belong to. I have to say that I was thrilled and pleasantly surprised to see the room packed to capacity. The fact that I brought my dog Shayli along, (our live furry "model") might of had something do do with it (wink).

I relished observing my students, all so attentive and receptive to what I was saying; ready, willing and eager to learn all they could in this all-but-too-short 2hr session. The room was almost vibing with utmost concentration as everybody worked diligently on each task I put forth before them. It really was such a pleasure to share with them some of the techniques I use to bring my pencil work to "life".

I would like to think that last night's workshop might have stirred in them a renewed interest for the medium that is so often misunderstood or overlooked because of it's simplicity. Gauging from the smiles and expressions on my student's faces as they gaze upon their masterpieces, I think I might just have succeeded.

Photo courtesy Ray Thoms photography

Mallard Duck Painting in Pastel

2011-01-24T13:47:00.009-05:00

Here is my finished female mallard painting:

Title: "Take-Off"

Medium: Pastel

Support: Archival suede board

Size: 19" x 9"

And here's a close up of details:

read more about this duck painting on my website: www.colettetheriault.com

That beautiful speculum!

2011-01-21T19:45:00.004-05:00

In this post I include a close-up of the duck to better visualize the feather detail. I am quite happy that most of the duck is now finished... I could barely wait to add the beautiful iridescent blue turquoise of the speculum! I kept that part for last...a reward of sorts, for all the hard feather work I had to do.

Although it is harder to achieve crisp detail working on the suede as compared to sandpaper, I find painting bird feathers much easier on the former.

Duck feathers

2011-01-15T15:40:00.003-05:00

I had to take time off from this painting due to other projects but this is the latest update of the mallard taking flight. You can see that I've started adding the details of the wing feathers. Next session I will complete the mallard's back before progressing to the feathers of the wing tip.

Duck Painting Progress

2011-01-12T16:11:00.004-05:00

I made some good progress today and happy how the pastel is working for me on this piece. I'm using a combination of Rembrant's round sticks and Pitt's FaberCastel pastel pencils for the finer details.

Duck and water continued...

2011-01-11T20:05:00.004-05:00

It always amazes me how much detail can be present in water. Unfortunately, it is not until you start to paint that you realize how much work it will be! There is so much movement in this scene; the complicated ripples, waves and splashes are what seem to attract me! And then more feathers to top it off!
My challenge word for 2011 is PERSEVERE and that is what I fully intend to do!

On a roll...another bird on the easel

2011-01-11T15:12:00.006-05:00

This is the first scan of the work in progress of a duck painting. I'm using pastels on archival suede board. The soft suede support works differently than the sandpaper with much less blending on the suede.