Heidi, thanks for your comments. Wow, that painting is way better - really gives me something to aspire to!
Kim, you're right, it's over. I've already re-stretched those stretcher bars.
Another thing I've learned here is not to do anything I wouldn't like to see hanging around my studio. As soon as the client gave up on it I was thinking I didn't like it either. I couldn't wait to get rid of it.
I see it now - there wasn't any way this was going to turn out well. I definitely should have passed this one up, but beggers can't be choosers!