This commissioned painting started with a few sketches that were approved.
Then the rough underpainting. This part always looks so unfinished. It's easy to get discouraged. But after a few years of painting, it all turns out fine. Just lots of layers and continuing on.
My little buddy, Riley watches the progress.
Not a great picture, but it's slowly coming together. I love how the boat's weathered wood is looking.
The final painting. I love to put little pieces of me into each piece. I actually found a glass float on the same beach where these "crow friends" love to gather around a fire and toast to friendship.
The ocean taught her how to drown in all the things bigger than herself. The ocean loved her and knew everything that made her. And every time she'd walk to the shore, she'd smile at the ocean because the waves told her story.
-r.m. drake
-r.m. drake