Brahman Baby in Gray-scale

Apr 25, 2019

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Madison

in Art by Madison Woods, Cow Art, Custom Paintings, Earth Paint Colors, Nature

So I’ve got something entirely new and out of my usual realm drying on the easel.

If you scroll down, you can watch “Brahma Baby” in progress, from start to finish.

If you’d like a print of this painting, please email me. It’s not listed in my shop yet at this time. then click here .

There are several differences between this painting and the others I’ve done. First, I’m using a different paper. It’s Fabriano Artistico 300# hot press. Previously I’d been using Arches cold press. It does make a difference, and so far, I think I’m liking this one better, though I don’t know if its the brand that makes the difference so much as the hot vs cold press surface. I’ll have to try Arches 300# hot press next time to make a comparison.

Second, it’s a lot larger than my previous paintings. Also, the subject matter is different. The cow was a special request, but I got to pick which cow to do. I’ve always loved Brahmans, so this cute little calf was my pick. And last, I’ve never worked more than a swatch in gray-tones. I am finding that I like it.

Brahman Baby in Progress

Colors used are all Ozark pigments: Bone black, Willow Black, and Creek Shale. I may add some brown tints in there at the end, but I’m undecided on that right now. Here’s a post about how to make these paints, if you’re interested in that aspect of things.

Brahman baby in progress. Starting out with a little smudge and splatter using creek shale and charcoal dust.

I don’t use pencil to draw in my rough sketch, because I don’t want to have to erase mistakes. So I use a color of paint that’s easy to lift if needed and do it with paintbrush.