Max

• Subject: West Highland Terrier
• Medium:Pastel
• Completion Date: May 15, 2011
• Completion Time: 40 hours
• Dimensions: 18'' X 18''
• Background: Mottled

I was asked to do this commission of a West Highland Terrier for the son of  a previous client for whom I had produced a portrait by the name of  ‘Jeannie’.    The image was rendered on an earth/raw umber coloured textured pastel board which gives the image an underlying warmth.

The image was sketched out initially in pink and white tones, adding darker areas in purple for definition and then layers were successively built up using a combination of  hard and soft pastels.  Gradually muted shades were introduced as the portrait progressed, intermixed with the use of pastel pencils to achieve detailing.  Final highlights were added using a very soft handmade titanium white pastel.

The blended background colours used are sympathetic to the subject but quite dark in order to project the image.

Max lived to the great age of seventeen and as told by his owner was a real character who had a few dealings with the local postman!

Thank you so much for our gorgeous portrait of our little Westie Max.  I am amazed how excellent the likeness of him is to the photo we sent you.  You have captured the whole essence of his personality in the picture.  I am very happy with the picture and it is going to take pride of place in the lounge so that everyone will see it when they come to our house.  I will have no hesitation to recommend you to all our friends and family as you are obviously truly talented in this field.