Tiger - Painting of cat in Ballarat

Tiger is a cat in our neighbourhood who I have cared for when the owners where holidaying.  This day she had just finished her dinner and was content to sit under the shade of the verandah and lick herself clean.

Though this looks like a blog for Andrew Thomas, I am actually his partner, Debbie Smith.  I enjoy very much taking photos of animals/people when they are most relaxed around me.  It is always a thrill to come home and sort through the shots looking for a potential painting.  I am pleased when there has been good contrasts of light and the eyes of the subject are 'talking' to me.  I have been painting more consistently over the last couple of years and am always on the look out for subjects.  I do accept commissions and particularly enjoy the photographic session where I have my opportunity to get to know the personality of the animal or person.

I am based in Ballarat, Victoria Australia and paint in the mediums of acrylic or oil.

I have painted cats, dogs, horses and ducks and children and babies.

This is a recently completed portrait of 'Blue'.  I photographed her in October of 2010 in Jackson, Wyoming.  She is a blue heeler with remarkable pale blue eyes.  Her job . . . hang out in the photographic gallery of David Brookover and at this particular time of day, lie down and take in the sun rays of the afternoon.  This is an acrylic painting on canvas board.  For a larger view, click on the pic.