The "ART" of Meditation and Relaxation

I am finally back in the studio after a slight hiatus! It feels great to be able to sit at the easel and lose myself in total relaxation as I listen to music and simply paint. Relax you might say?? Some of you might find it hard to believe that creating art can become a form of meditation. It has for me.
As my mind becomes focused I am forced to concentrate on the task at hand, hence the mental distractions disappear.  Of course, frustration can negatively impact this state of bliss so I try to keep that at a minimum by staying calm and simply believing in myself.♥

Below is a detail snap shot of a new work in progress. I hope you will enjoy the transformation of a blank piece of paper into a special work of art.
 

 P.S. You can follow the progression of this dog painting from start to finish by subscribing to my Facebook page "Animal Artistry of Colette Theriault".   Simply "Like" my page and future posts should end up automatically in your  news feed... OR... you can "Follow by Email" (Both the Facebook and Follow by Email links are located on right hand side of this blog post)  ------------>>>>

Pit Bull Terrier Portrait (graphite drawing)

I haven't had the chance to post all of my Christmas commissions so thought I'd share this dog portrait I created using graphite pencil. 

I had a handful of photos to use but the original reference photo I had to work with measured only about 3 inches and did not have optimal resolution. To make matters more challenging, the client wanted a large portrait measuring 11x14! 

Creating a white animal on a white background may not be immediately apparent but can be achieved by carefully observing and exaggerating the subtle tonal values (highlights and shadows). One must be careful not to darken the values too much or the subject will end up looking darker than actually would be.

For more examples of my work, visit www.colettetheriault.com 
  

Buster

Pit Bull Terrier 

graphite pencils

11"x14"

commission

An artist's life...not always what it seems.

Much to my chagrin, an artist's job revolves around doing so many other things other than paint or draw. As self-employed individuals, we sometimes have to wear many "hats" to help ensure a good functioning of the business.  This might include things like bookkeeping, accounting, advertising, follow ups, grant applications, stocking of materials and supplies, framing, field work, social networking, workshops, websites, promotions, and the list goes on!

While I don't do all of  these things everyday (although some are routine), focusing on actual painting time is not always easy because personal life, well, that often becomes priority too! I've realized I am still learning on how to manage time more efficiently, and organize and prioritize tasks to achieve a healthy compromise and become more productive.

It will be an interesting 2015; I know it will be different than last year.

On that note, I leave you with a glimpse of my first project of the year...a commission of a well known and loved breed of dog. Guesses anyone?

Reflections from my studio

Although I did not achieve all I had planned for 2014, it was still a memorable year. Many wonderful opportunities arose...I explored Panama for 3 weeks, taught workshops for adults and teens (Visionart), established new relationships with several galleries, sold quite a few original paintings and prints from my inventory, worked with old and new clients as I created commissions for them, and met some wonderful people who've inspired me to never give up! Thank you all and I welcome 2015 with open arms, embracing the new adventures and opportunities that await...