Nicolae's GF Laughing Giraffe mixed media portrait

Nicolae's Giraffe

Over the years we have decided the places we like to visit and have gone back multiple times.   In this day and age I think it is uncommon that in a hotel environment the workers would have been there 10-35 years.  So friendships develop.   Each of the people we have encountered have made our stays extra special in a variety of ways.   One of the ladies that works the check in desk had a baby last year.   Since we were unable to go in November we just saw her when we were in DC.   He is now 14 months, and in love with giraffes.  She has a yellow and gray nursery decor and I wanted to do a giraffe.   Wasn't sure if it should be the "kiddie" kind, but thought he might outgrow it.   So I decided to do one semi realistic so that he wouldn't outgrow it right away.  Aren't they just the strangest looking animal?

I always wish I would keep my mouth shut, because it does worry me when I say I will paint something - it sort becomes like a commission then, more pressure.  I looked at all kinds of giraffe pics and kind of liked this guy as he has a bit of personality, I thought he might be a happy, laughing giraffe.  When at the Birmingham Alabama zoo we got to feed some giraffes.   They have a really long tongue, love romaine lettuce (me too!!) and were very gentle about taking it out of your fingers.  

So started with a 6"x12" canvas board and collaged it.  I had some printed book pages but it sort of attracted too much attention, no problem, just collages a solid piece over the top of it.  So the only thing printed that I left really visible was some pieces of a map.    Why, as my hubby's first question came out?   Well, I like the idea of it and that it makes you think and maybe ask why and also it could be part of the story.

So it is off to the post office and fingers crossed he will recognize it as a giraffe and like it.