A boy and his dog
 

This is my friend and his dog. It was done with soft black pastel on a sanded paper, about 15 x 12. It is posthumous in that the little dog has since passed on to where dogs go after having done battle with a car.

My friend recently moved to Tulsa from Kentucky, where this reference photo was taken. The little dog met his demise a short time after the move. My friend consulted me about the photo, wanting to have it enlarged. I managed to connive my way into keeping a copy of the photo and presented him with this portrait as a surprise for Christmas.

I get a little nervous about using other people's reference, having shown this in a public forum, and I don't personally know the photographer. So, I would like to go on record as having obtained permission from the photo studio in Kentucky.

Mike,

This is a touching and beautiful portrait. I just said, "Wow" softly as I opened it.

I'm sure he loves it. The care you took with the pooch is obvious and made a difference in how it is viewed. The center of interest is clear.

Good job.

Nice drawing, Mike!

I like the "soft", comfortable feel to the drawing. I'm sure your friend was quite pleased.

This is really very nice, Mike. Evokes the right emotions, I lost my dog last year and this portrait brought tears. My compliments!!!

Nice job, Mike. I especially admire how you handled those soft shadows, well done!

Thanks to everyone for your continued support.


Animals

I think I could turn and live with animals, they

Bravo.

Since we're quoting great poets,

I never saw a wild thing sorry for itself.
A small bird will drop frozen dead
from a bough without ever having
felt sorry for itself.
-DH Lawrence