Painting The Lovely Stella: Step-by-Step

As you can see from my latest project, a custom oil painting of the lovely Stella, I am staying busy during this “stay at home” time. And Stella’s brilliant human took advantage of my 50% Social Distancing Discount! Stella is 23 years young and I will enjoy meeting her when we are able to get out and about again.


The Photo


This is the photograph that Stella’s human sent to me to create a custom oil painting of this vivacious 23 year old. Isn’t she gorgeous?

Photo of Stella
Sketch with Partial Wash


The Sketch and Wash

This is the first not quite finished wash over the basic sketch. You can still see the sketching on the lower right part of the canvas. Wash is a process of putting a very thin coat of oil paint on the canvas. It shows me the lights and the darks that I will use for contrast. 


Full Color Palette

Here I have added the full palette of color. This is where the painting comes together as a whole, confirming that I got the drawing right.

Full Color Palette
Final Detailed Painting


Final with Details

This is the final painting of Stella with the finished details – delicate whiskers, detailed fur, individual blades of grass, and those gorgeous eyes.


Framed Painting

I framed the final painting of Stella for her human and it is waiting for the end of our “stay at home” period to make its way to Stella’s home!

Final Framed Painting

I hope you enjoyed seeing how I created the portrait of Stella, the gorgeous 23 year old beauty. I am looking forward to handing it over to her human after our time sheltering at home. As you know, I am offering a special Social Distancing Discount and staying busy as a result!

But I would love to create a custom oil painting of your dog or cat or other animal companion, or of a loved one during this time! You can either complete this form to order your own painting or contact me via email or call me at (214) 405-1834

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