Hannah's Portal

Hannah, a 20 year old  tuxedo cat, was my walking companion during a visit to Harpswell Maine a few summers ago.  She and I strolled the shore early in the morning. I was amazed at both her agility to manage the rocks and her acuity for such a wizened cat. Returning from our exploration of the nearby cove, we passed beneath the bows of an ancient apple tree reputed to have a strong spirit residing within.  It was a bit creepy and I felt compelled  to give it a nod of respect as I  snuck under the gnarled limbs. Hannah has passed on since that summer.  I wonder if she has joined the spirit of this enduring apple tree. I wish my little friend well. I drew this 22x 30" image with 4-6B graphite pencils on a sheet of beautiful BFK Rives 140# cotton paper.  The furry surface adds to the diffused feeling of this drawing.  This was a study with the intent to eventually to make a colored pencil painting. But I love this graphite so much, just the way it is.  And it has been filed away for almost a year now, so I get to experience it objectively. I doubt a color rendition would improve the message.  Mean time, it remains in cue for one day. Enjoy!

Finished? Perhaps. Linus

I took a picture of this painting early this morning in diffused light.  The sun wasn't over my house yet.  I  will try again later when I  can use the garage doors to bounce light.  This is a bit washed out. Any way, what do you think?  The measurement is roughly 11x14"  Mostly colored pencil with a bit of white gouache here and there for highlights.