This week, I decided on a final layout for my painting. I took the sloth’s adaptations and my color choices into account when deciding on a final composition. I did this by doing small thumbnail sketches, and then doing a larger, cleaner sketch. I then copied that sketch onto my watercolor block and got ready to paint.
Here's my final pencil line work in progress:
And my cluttered workspace complete with sloth buddy:
I started off by adding large washes of paint to block out the very basic shapes in my painting. I like to add large areas of color, and then add additional layers of detail on top. It always helps me to start with the background, especially when using watercolor. From there, I started adding bits of shadow to the darkest areas, and applying base colors that will start defining some of the details of my piece. This is my favorite part of the process -- adding vibrant colors!
Did you know that moths often live in the fur of sloths? They form a mutual symbiotic relationship by doing this, and I think that is so cool. I can't wait to paint in the moths in my piece!
Check out this video from Science Insider I watched this week! Lots of interesting facts about three-toed sloths!
Check back in next week to see more progress! Also check out my art website that just went live this past week: https://www.meredithlynnart.com/