Schardale Summer Magic (Lexie)

The artist chose colours which she observed in her reference photograph for this work, but she readily admits that others might see things differently.

- Gillian Morey

With my HB pencil, I start to draw the subject on a plain piece of paper. Most times I begin with the eyes and nose to get the triangle working, but this time I started with the ears. Lexie’s ears are a main feature – typical Bull Terrier ears with a few folds and pinkish, erect definite lines. Once I have the size and shape of the ears correct, the rest of the features fall into place.

I never make a definite cut-off point for an animal portrait – I give myself space to allow the balance of the finished painting to be correct and even; not top heavy. When I am happy with the sketch I transfer it very lightly onto my good acid free cartridge paper, using a light box (tracing paper is another option). I remove unwanted pencil marks with a kneadable eraser.

I keep all my pencils sharp so they are ready to go. Once I have used a colour, I leave that pencil out on my desk. With Aquarelle Watercolour Pencils, I work light to dark. Each layer of colour is applied with a light touch. Transparent colours allow each hue to shine through. I keep the shape and texture of the subject in mind, leaving any highlights white.

Starting with Cream, I apply a light cover over the light areas and eyes (leaving the pupils white). With the Sky Blue, I put in all areas where I can see a shine on the animal’s coat. For the collar, I use Light Magenta to define the shape. Light Magenta is also used around the eyes, near the tear duct and just above the nose.