I was looking through some old picture folders a few days ago and stumbled onto a photo of Raven I had completely forgotten I'd taken. I still don't remember taking that particular shot but it's clear enough to use for a portrait. Even though she's been gone since 2007 I haven't painted her portrait because I didn't think I had any decent photos of her. Not that I didn't try but black cats are difficult to photograph. I've always felt bad that I've never honored her memory in this way. She was the most beautiful black cat I've ever seen. Fur like silk and her eyes were the most incredible shade of green/gold with a bit of turquoise around the irises. Her ears were big and round. When she ran she would fold them back against her head and she looked like she was flying. For that reason my youngest son named her Raven. I hope I'm able to capture her beauty and spirit in a portrait.
4 comments:
I know you'll make a beautiful tribute to Raven. There is something healing in the process of painting the image of a lost pet. It just feels right and seems to put things to rest.
I agree, Jeanette. It's been bugging me for ages that I've never painted her portrait. Unfinished business of sorts. She was such a special cat to me.
I so look forward to seeing your result. Already the drawing shows character and life. We are on our second black cat (they're the best, of course) and my best photograph shows the eyes, nose, and whiskers. Someday I'll attempt it. Waiting to see what YOU do first.
I've never understood the dislike of black cats, Katherine. I've had two myself and they were both lovely. Never gave me a bit of bad luck.;) Black subjects are so difficult to paint! I'll be testing some colors before I get started so I can put some life into her black fur.
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