This painting was recently completed of a beautiful German Shepherd Dog named Charlie. He was a very special family member.
When I am asked to paint a dog painting for a family, it is a special request. For someone to commission me to paint their dog, there is no question if the dog is a family member or not.
Growing up, we had a German Shepherd that looked very similar to Charlie. A few years later, as a young teenager, our family rescued a German Shepherd / Lab mix. That dog would later intervene and stop a charging bull from hurting me. Dogs are such an important part of our lives. German Shepherds are such wonderful family dogs. Painting their thick coats is always a fun endeavor. The black and tan colors of the breed are such a compliment to the eye. Photographs never do paintings justice - for any artist. I've placed some fun blue and purple shadows and highlights in this painting. They are intermixed in Charlie's coat and are mostly undetected in this photograph. Nothing takes the place of viewing art in person. Don't underestimate going to an art exhibit or museum to view art. What you will see in person is so much more than what photographs of that art will show you.
Being able to be a full time artist is such a blessing. A big thank you to John and Lana for having this painting of Charlie created by me. It was an honor to paint him. I can't wait for you to see the painting in person.
Charlie's reference photo:
