Dec 12, 2016 10:37AM - edited Dec 12, 2016 11:28AM by QuinnCat

Flaming June is still on the back burner for a forgery. I have decided to do Sandro Botticelli's Portrait of a Lady for the forgery show. In the meantime, I have started my first oil painting in color (actually I have one color painting previous, but my heart wasn't in it). This is an actual kitten belonging to an Austrian FB friend. IT IS NOT FINISHED. I imagine I will spend another 10-20 hours on it. It is the same breed of cat I own, a Devon Rex. Very furless at this age (15 weeks, though some have fur too at this age), big ears, big eyes. He looks very alien right now because the eyes aren't finished (pupils very indiscernable). So much left to do.

P.S. I am not an "artist," so the title of this thread "Calling all Artists" is a bit misleading. I'm trying to learn how to oil paint. I'm not saying this is great, but I am saying I had no idea I could even do this 4 months ago, so I am posting mostly because I want to encourage others that might think they want to learn to paint. After BC I found myself in retirement earlier than planned. One of my jobs, was map making and required some visual media skills. I knew I would miss that part of the job and luckily, my little town, has a fantastic oil painting teacher. I am now convinced a monkey can be taught to paint, so I must redefine what "artist" means. I'm still searching for that, but I think creativity must play a part. I have near zero creativity and admire that in people who do! Having said that, really, anyone can learn to paint (with the exception of watercolor - never could get that!).

Dec 12, 2016 01:17PM wren44 wrote:

Quinncat, I love the painting, especially the little paws with claws. They are odd looking as kittens, especially if you're used to furry guys. I'm with you on art. I'm doing watercolor despite a lack of talent. The important part is that I love doing it and am having a good time. My goal is to be able to sketch a location for memory rather than taking a photo. I was thinking of French cafes but I'm going to have to settle for ones here, I think. A woman in my art class went to Yellowstone and made a little diary of her trip. She paints very small and is good (helps). Each page has a tiny painting of something she saw with an explanation or diary entry on the remainder of the page. She even makes her own tiny notebooks using good paper and cutting to her preferred size. My class has beginners who have never painted and some who are very good and just like the company.

Dec 12, 2016 03:39PM Smurfette26 wrote:

It's fantastic QuinnCat. Wish I could get motivated to begin some crafting again. Have not picked up a brush or needle since before my BC diagnosis. Love seeing the beautiful work here. Thanks for sharing.

Dec 12, 2016 04:09PM Mom2fourplusmore wrote:

Quinncat, you said you're not an artist? Oh I disagree. That cat is amazing. I thought it was a photo. People who hold a natural talent don't usually recognize it. My brother sings and says anyone can learn to sing. I assure you that's not true. And my kids can attest to my horrible voice. When you say a monkey can learn it's because you have a natural tendency and it comes easy. Don't underestimate yourself. Can't wait to see what else you start painting. Good for you

Dec 12, 2016 04:48PM barbe1958 wrote:

I consider myself very artistic and I can't paint oils!!! I agree that it has to be inherent before it can come out well. Having said that, I admire anyone who has the guts to put something out there. It took me years before I could call myself an artist. As I began to sell my work that certainly built my confidence.

I think that cat IS amazing!!!!!!