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Inspired by Nature is the theme for an upcoming show that I am participating in just a few weeks from now. Everything in the show is either made from natural items such as minerals and gemstones, or depicts something from nature like wildlife art and photography. I participated in this same show last July and it truly is an awesome show featuring the most talented artists and craftspeople. If you are in the area please come join us for this fun show!

Of course, I have been busy creating new pieces to debut that weekend. The painting featured in this newsletter is just about finished. The African wild dog still needs a little tweaking and I need to add some foreground grasses before calling it done.

So why have I painted an African wild dog when I normally paint only North American species or wildlife that I have personally seen and experienced? Well, there are several reasons. The first is that I love to paint fur. My last few paintings have depicted birds and I needed a break from all those feathers which have both texture and pattern. It can make your eyes go crossed sometimes trying to keep your place on your reference and your painting. Interestingly enough I picked a dog with both texture and pattern! Crazy, I know, but in my mind it's easier to do if it's fur.

The second reason is that I love to paint dogs. Now I could have painted a hunting dog or some other breed, but from a sales standpoint people aren't inclined to buy it if it's not their dog. This I know from taking my art to dog shows. I couldn't sell the originals, but I could sell them a custom piece of their dog.

Other reasons for painting this wild dog is because I loved his expression and his crazy colors. Also, I've never painted any African beasts so thought it would be a good opportunity to try. Though I haven't been to Africa and couldn't take my own reference photos there is a handy website that allows you to purchase photos to use in your paintings. Photo credit for this piece goes to Mauritz de Villiers from Wildlife Reference Photos.

African Wild Dog is 8" x 10" and will be available for purchase when finished. I will have him at the Inspired by Nature Show if you'd like to view him in person. Please make plans to come out and join us that weekend!

As always, thank you for your interest in my art!

Blessings ~ Catherine