When I first started working on this piece, the underpainting was so loose with daubs of paint in just the right places giving an impressionistic feel. I then didn't want to work on it anymore because I couldn't bear to lose that quality. So it was quite a few weeks before I worked on it again. This happens sometimes. I love the underpainting stage and working with watercolour-like washes with paint thinner.
As I worked into the foliage, I was very absorbed when observing the leaves and the subtle sheen of the wet fur. The baby beavers fur seems more spiky and porous to that of an otter which seems more oily. The mother seems to be quite serene as she brushes against the foliage.
The water was slowly built up one translucent layer at a time, to reveal the mud and the reflections, but retaining the water's fluidity and movement. The reeds were also carefully layered, with some strands submerged, and some floating. to give a sense of movement.
The nature spirit totem message for Beaver is about putting in solid foundations and teamwork.
‘When we get our teeth into a new project, beaver motivates us to build from the ground up and work as a team to share ideas and resources. With determination, co-operation and productivity, those dreams won't be blocked by a dam.’
Spirit of Beaver is an original oil painting on 20x20x1.5cm stretched canvas with painted wraparound edges. It is available as a Limited Edition Giclée Print and Greeting Card. Merchandise for this painting will follow soon.
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