The Artwork

Painted on canvas with oils, a caricature portrait of an intrepid hiker trekking under clear blue skies, surrounded by sun bleached vegetation.

Anyone who enjoys walking for pleasure through the countryside will see a kindred spirit in this hiker. Our adventurous friend, stopping for a short break under the hot and dazzling sun, turns to give us a smile. He's very well kitted out for the journey - a pair of sturdy hiking boots on his feet and a green hat on his head. The large brim of the hat shades the upper half of his face, sunglasses just about visible. A much needed water bottle hangs from his belt and his gloved hands clutch a hiking stick.

Here are a few progress shots of the painting:

a) initial line drawing


b) ... shading with a purple acrylic paint


c) ... final acrylic underpainting, simply a wash of scarlet red over the shading