How to Paint a Great Dane Portrait

With a bit of patience and an eye for symmetry you too can paint a portrait of your favorite Great Dane; in this case a portrait of my son's dog, Kava. Click on pictures to see details...

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• canvas
• brushes
• linseed oil
• disposable plates
• oil paints

1. I used a limited palette of yellow ochre, ultramarine blue, titanium white, raw umber, ivory black, a tiny bit of alizarin crimson and SAP green. [I have found that paper plates make great palettes as they are disposable and can be put into a ziplock bag to save for your next painting session.]
2. click to enlarge The first step is to select a photograph. Using the photo sketch the main lines onto your canvas.
3. click to enlarge Next, paint your background. Because this is a portrait background a simple mixing of paints is all that is necessary. Pay attention to lighter shades around the dog's head.
4. click to enlarge Make a wash out of linseed oil and raw umber with a little yellow ochre and paint in the shades of the picture. Let dry.
5. click to enlarge Using thin colors start adding layers of color adding depth. At this point don't worry about details; just work on shades and highlights. Using a dry brush blend colors lightly. Let dry.
6. click to enlarge Paying close attention to your photograph start adding the details. Finish the eye. Let dry.
7. click to enlarge Finish painting by adding last details.
8. Let dry and frame. In 6-12 months remove from frame and lightly spray with a protective UV varnish available at most art or hobby stores.