The Wood Children
 

Normally I'd post these in critiques, but I've already delivered the paintings so there's nothing I can do as far as changes. Also, I don't want to take up people's critiquing time, so here you go....

I'd never painted dogs before (of course I didn't tell the client that!) and it was more fun than I expected.

The mom was delighted when I delivered these -- and best of all, she paid me a deposit to do another portrait of the two kids with herself and her husband next year!

The paintings are 30x40".

Very beautiful,Michele! It seems that you get better with each painting. Do you feel like you are?

Wow.

Of course she was thrilled! I especially enjoy the way you have designed the portratis to be compatible, but still very individual. Beautifully done work Michele.

Those are really beautiful. I like the dogs too!

I like the colourful background of the girl very much.

You have this hair thing down. The boy's hair is perfect, and I love the back lighting with the girl.

My Lord, Michele, these are abosolutely breathtaking!!! Very rich, expressive, sensitive, emotional. I love them. Thank you for sharing them with us.

Wonderful Michele. You seem to be doing plenty - have you been getting faster do you think? Not that it is important at all, but I remember you had mentioned it.

I have been getting faster, and though I don't know if every painting is better than the one before it, as Cynthia asked, I know my work has been getting better over time.

As an example, these two paintings took me about half the time I think they would have taken a year ago. It's mostly because I don't need to rework things as often, and because I plan more from the start.

This is so beautiful, Michelle. I learn a lot from each portrait you post. Thank you so much. The little girl's love for her puppy really comes through! Congratulations on capturing that emotion.

Denise

Glad you like it. The girl and the puppy is about as overly sentimental as you can get, but that's reality. She's completely in love with the little fluffball and hugs him all the time.