Castello family portrait

I just finished a fun commission for the Castello family, a portrait on the occasion of their newborn baby boy. They love the woods and nature, living in the beautiful Santa Cruz mountains. I love it when the animals are included, of course they are family! The moose represents their grandfather, watching over them.

I also remembered to take more process photos along the way. Most of the time I really zone out (or in?) and loose all track of what's happening when Im painting. This is watercolor and colored pencil about 8x10"

First I photocopy my drawing, then transfer it to my watercolor board with carbon transfer paper. Then I outline with colored pencil, and lay in washes of color starting from light to dark. 

Kids Name Signs

For Christmas I painted and framed these two name signs for my little cousins Ethan and Madeleine, it was so much fun. Ive been playing with colored inks on Strathmore 500 vellum Illustration board. Its smooth enough to ink on, yet has enough tooth for watercolors. I love it!

Sunnysaurus poster

I had a fun commission to create this family poster for a Christmas surprise. The family spends a lot of time at their lake cabin, playing in the water where Sunfish nibble their toes. Only this time its the Sunnysaurus!! Watch out! The original is 16x20" watercolor.

the little painters

One of my latest paintings based on some of my childhood memories and wishes (I always wanted a doggie!). My initial sketch for it too...

happy september

Happy September, I cant believe its the beginning of fall already. My flowers are dying down a little and all the grass is a shimmering golden color. Soon it will be time for apple pie!

new painting: the star gazers . . .

the star gazers

happy valentines day!

Puffers first kiss! This was an idea I had on valentines day but didnt get to it til now, a few days later. Love to all!