Many portraits that I have done are surprises for the loved ones in my life. This color pencil portrait was one of those surprises. If ever I have extra time in between commissioned pieces I like to use that time to work on a special surprise for family or a good friend. Of course I can only do this if I have a good photo. This is sometimes the most challenging part. When I take a photo I have to be sure the lighting is just right and the pose is just right and so on. This is difficult to do when you are trying not to let the owner know what you are up to! My long time best buddy lives in Blackriver Falls, Wisconsin. My husband and I were up visiting our friends one summer and when I saw their dog Mattie laying on the bed in the sunshine I took the opportunity take a few digital photos. Luckily she was holding her head nice and high so I was able to see her neck in the shots. She is an older girl, about 12 or so, and her eyes were showing signs of age. I have had this situation before. It was the same with the two Dachshunds that I featured in an earlier post. This is a challenge that fortunately I can work around. There were some strong shadows because of the sun, but they seemed to be in all the right places. When I presented the gift to my friend it wasn’t for a special occasion. I was in Wisconsin for a yearly visit and I wanted to present it to her in person. She had no clue what was in the rolled up tube I had laying on the table. I really get a big kick out of this. If I can make a personal delivery happen I will because the reaction feeds my soul. It is often a very emotional moment occupanied with tears. This time was no different!
3 Responses
I will never forget the day that my dear friend Lesley presented me with this beautiful drawing of my dog Mattie, it was such a wonderful surprise. I think she probably new how truly delighted I was by my reaction; tears of joy. Mattie is getting up there in the years and I know she will not live forever. I am so grateful to have such a talented and generous friend.
Sincerely,
Brenda Woodhull
Recently I lost my beloved companion, and friend “Mattie”. She has been a part of my life for fifteen years, and will be greatly missed. I am so very thankful that my dear friend Lesley had the opportunity to draw the most amazingly beautiful portrait of “Mattie”. Each time I look at her portrait I am filled with all the memories of the precious times we shared together. No words can ever express my thanks.
Best Regards,
Your friend,
Brenda
I know the pain of loosing a pet that you love. The anguish of the loss is more than you can ever imagine. Unfortunately it is part of being a committed dog owner…to be there until the end. Because they give so much love all the years that they are with us we try our best to make thoughtful, but sometimes difficult decisions on their behalf at the end. Now you have to focus on how much happiness you gave each other for all those years. I am glad you have this portrait to help you through this difficult time. Love to you my friend, Lesley