Every painting begins with research and a spot of tea.
This one was no exception.
This one was no exception.
Who knew it would be a challenge to draw these paper origami cranes?
Might be easier to fold them!
My trusty assistant, Riley, helping with the rough ideas.
This is a photo taken during the creation of this painting.
Paint, pencils, tissue paper, bits of drawings all help me hash things out.
The background took quite a few layers of paint to get it just right. Payne's grey, blues, and whites are my paint colors, a limited palette. I wanted to give it a distressed and worn look so I used sandpaper to rub off some of the paint. Backgrounds should be easy, but sometimes they take some effort.
Close up of the dress... the koi fish were a last minute addition.But I think fit well with the theme of the painting.
A close up of her sweet face.
The final painting. I love the limited palette of colors. I'm still working on those faces!! Practice. For the print or the original.
She folded the soft white paper into one thousand delicate and intricate cranes. Slowly releasing each tiny bird into flight. Pure wishes. Each crane holding a prayer for those facing difficult challenges. Every crane hoping to heal the world with peace and unconditional love. Two tiny red koi fish symbolize bravery and courage during adversity, strength during enduring struggles. They represent yin and yang-the belief that all things in life are connected. "I will write peace on your wings and you will fly all over the world." -Sadako Sasaki