work on my elf painting

I'm just about done with this painting- I think- and at a place where I'm not embarrassed by it, so figured I'd post a little update before the finishing details.

this was my inspiration

I got right to work in my new spot upstairs, where it's warmer;

 notice how small this canvas is?

the face is even smaller!

 I laughed way too much at the evil elf eyes that happened

when I dragged the blue around for the iris

 tiny details are really difficult, 

and I struggled with the lightness of the face in the photo

 getting there with the face (it looks like me as a child)

but the background is too dark

very close to finishing

need to work on the eyes a bit

I'm pretty happy with how it's coming together, even with changing the background that I was loving.  I know I can create that look again, so I didn't hesitate too much with that decision.  if I can find a way to get the eyes looking better close-up I'd be ecstatic, but I don't know if I have a steady enough hand or a small enough brush.  my worry is when blowing it up for a tote or something it will be all fuzzy and distorted.  and this is why working on large canvasses is a bit easier if I am putting them on other merchandise.  I suppose its easier with more abstract pieces, or if I weren't a perfectionist.

as always, I'll update when it's up in the store(s)

until later,

Jenny