Inquisitive pastel seal under water

                                                                     Inquisitive
                                                                       9"x12"
                                                                       Pastel

Not sure but think this might be Penguin day.  No, this isn't a penguin, couldn't get motivated to do one or anything else.  Not ready to tackle my next project and was just casting about looking for something I could do.

So  made up a quick pastel support using watercolor paper and acrylic inks.  Then once that dried I applied a layer of clear gesso.  For whatever reason clear gesso has a grit to it and it makes it perfect to hold several layers of pastel and makes for a very economical sanded support.  I really liked getting some pastels out of the box that I don't usually work with.  And, think it gives a very under-the-sea appearance.    I am still into color because it is so gray here - no rain today but never have seen the sun yet!!   After 4 or 5 days it gets rather depressing.

This picture actually was inspired by a photo I saw in DC last December, part of the Windland Smith Rice exhibit that recognizes wildlife photographers.


Comments

hmuxo said…
How sweet this little guy is, Nelvia. Love his expression!!!
April 25, 2018 at 10:20 PM
Mellowood Gallery said…
What a charming painting Nelvia and the title is perfect! I really like the colours.
April 26, 2018 at 11:53 AM
Joan Tavolott said…
Wonderful job on him and the background,
April 27, 2018 at 3:10 AM
Sheila said…
Amazing detail in the eyes, and everything else is perfect too Nelvia :) Sweet smile :)
April 27, 2018 at 5:03 AM
Nelvia said…
He just looked like he could take off and start talking to you.
April 27, 2018 at 8:38 AM
Nelvia said…
Thanks Val, never sure how or who is going to keep me company in the art room. I too have a newfound respect now for lime greens
April 27, 2018 at 8:39 AM
Nelvia said…
Thanks Joan, waiting with anticipation for your next posts
April 27, 2018 at 8:40 AM
Nelvia said…
Thanks Sheila, I had fun with the colors in the eyes too
April 27, 2018 at 8:40 AM
Festészetem tükrében said…
Very cute. In the days I saw a report from a famous American painter whose famous ocean images are famous, the amazing surface of the ocean that he transmits. Unfortunately, I do not know his name. Now that's your picture.
September 30, 2018 at 8:38 AM
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