"Santa Fe Sky, Early Evening"

I have recently started painting again after a bit of a hiatus. Life got in the way, as they say. So here is my most recent effort. I took a workshop from Iain Stewart at the Watercolor Art Society-Houston a couple of weeks ago, and I really enjoyed learning from him! I love his teaching style (very laid back and FUN!) and his work is just phenomenal. I am feeling revitalized in my art.

"Santa Fe Sky, Early Evening"

Original Watercolor by Becky Brocato

10 x 8

©Becky Brocato

"Mo," a recent pet portrait

©Becky Brocato
"Mo"
11" x 14"
Watercolor on 300 lb Arches CP


This pet portrait commission that I recently completed is of an amazing Chocolate Lab named Mo. He was such a special pet for his family for many years, so after he passed, his owners wanted a really special remembrance of him. The lady of the house was especially close to Mo because he was her constant and faithful companion when the kids were at school and her husband was at work, which included a lot of business travel. I was so happy when she received the portrait last night and she teared up. She said I had captured his image, his personality and the light in his eyes. Mission accomplished.

I used several photos as reference material for this painting. The out-of-doors background was not in the original photo, as it was taken inside their home. Also, the lighting was from a flash, which flattened out his features and changed the color of his eyes. So I really had a challenge making the shadows, highlights and his eye color look more natural. I really enjoyed painting this portrait, and I am very happy with the results!