Mourning Dove

oil on panel, 8" x 10"

I painted this mourning dove in honor of my good friend Ron, who lost his daughter Claire recently to a rare liver disease.  She was only 38 years old.  I didn't know her, but testimonials from everyone in her world described an exceptionally rare and beautiful spirit.  The angels in this world sometimes complete their tasks ahead of schedule.  

This painting was done using the various tools I've been learning to master lately.  In addition to brush and palette knife, I used a brayer, a carving block, and a makeup sponge.  With this method, it's really hard to know when a painting is finished.  I could easily go on and on with it, but I do like the abstract shapes in the background and especially the colors.