Memory Portrait of Curly - Stage 1

by Carol McIntyre on 9/10/2009 1:45:45 PM6 Comments

Sketch of Curly, a Paso Fino

What does Paso Fino mean? It translates into "fine step," which is appropriate for these horses. Paso Fino horses orginate from Columbia, South America, known for their people friendly traits and smooth riding gaits. Whenever I begin a Memory Portrait commission, I invariably learn something new; this is one of the many reasons why I enjoy working with people in creating a painting they want.

The first step of the commissioning process is an indepth interview. Suzie's husband, Rick, asked me to paint her horse Curly and after several questions and photographic references, he decided to get Suzie involved versus having the painting be a surprise. Rick thought the outcome would be more satisfactory, and I believe he is correct. Through the interviewing process, I learned that Curly is an 18 year old male, who is a bit of a trickster - will tip over a bucket for fun - yet kind and sensitive with a good heart. He also has a unique marking on his forehead. Suzie also gave me several more photographs and indicated her favorite picture of Curly.

Posted here is a sketch of Curly. You will notice that it is on tracing paper. I do this in case my first attempt at painting Curly is not successful - I still have a drawing from which to begin another attempt. My questions for Suzie and Rick at this stage are: 1.) Are his proportions correct? 2.) Is the location of eye approximately correct? 3.) In the photos, his nose/muzzle area seems narrow in comparison to other horses, is it correct? 4.) Would you like the background to be abstract or a fuzzy landscape or should I make the decision? and 5.) Is there anything else I should know before I transfer this skectch onto canvas?

I would love input from others as well as Suzie and Rick. Thank you!

...to be continued.

6 Responses to Memory Portrait of Curly - Stage 1

	Rick Tiller via mcintyrefineart.com	29 months ago
	Hey Carol, I'm ready to go! I posted a note on Facebook to alert my friends to the project. Hopefully they will start dropping by and follow the progress!

	Carol McIntyre via mcintyrefineart.com	29 months ago
	Thanks Rick. I am ready for the next phase also! :)

	SuzieTiller via mcintyrefineart.com	29 months ago
	Carol he is looking great! I think his heart shape may be a little longer and narrower, but not sure. Paso Finos do have a little smaller muzzle, so that part looks good. His eyes look to be in the right position. I think he was doing his Elvis impression at the time that photo was taken. If you would like to be responsible for the background that would be great. You are the artist and I am up for your style showing through! I am very excited to watch the progression of his portrait!

	Carol McIntyre via mcintyrefineart.com	29 months ago
	Great feedback Suzie. Thank you soooooo much. Should I keep the Elvis impression in mind while I paint him? :) I always have adjectives going through my head while I am painting. I will post this color palette next.

	SuzieTiller via mcintyrefineart.com	29 months ago
	In my eyes Curly is The King! LOL!

	suzie tiller via mcintyrefineart.com	29 months ago
	Carol, I love the colors you have chosen for the background!

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