1. I start most of my paintings by sketching the image on the canvas. Here, I've also masked the horizon line with tape to insure a crisp edge between water and sky. Lately, the initial sketch has become an important part of my painting process. I've found that making this as clean and accurate as possible helps prevent unwanted distortions or perspective problems that can take a lot more time to fix once several layers of paint has been applied. I also make sure to clean up the pencil drawing by erasing everything I don't need for the painting. By cleaning the pencil drawing up, I keep all the colors I paint with as pure as possible.

2. During this stage, I painted in the basic colors of the painting. The male horse is darker and more black with gray. I used Paynes Grey, and Ivory Black for him. The Mare was warmer in color. I used a variety of browns, Burnt Umber, and some purple for her. I also went a little slower at this point, making sure the figures were posed as I wanted them, and also working out facial expressions. The male had a way of standing proud and almost defiant.

3. At this point, I start working on the texture and design of the water. I have an opportunity to play with the shapes of the foam along the shoreline. I also start the process of painting the mixed up sand by their hooves. There is really no defining edge of water and land except for the white foam, so I will make sure to add some detail here. I will also add many layers of white to create subtle variations of color value, at the same time building the canvas surface.

4. Here, I add a variety of colors throughout the portrait with greater focus on the ocean. I added Thalo Blue, and Ultramarine Blue with a little bit of Cobalt blue, and Manganese Blue to the reflective water. I really wanted the water to be a main character in this painting and not just a background element, so I spent some time figuring out how the water moves and reacts to the wind, and to itself.

5. The most obvious change in this painting is with the horses. I added detail to their faces and manes. I also softened the water in places behind them. Lately, I've been bouncing back and forth between this painting and one I'm doing of clouds. Sometimes its nice to switch artwork, so you can see things with fresh eyes.

6.Final: The new Painting of The Wild Horses Of The Outer Banks is completed! I continued working with the water by adding detail throughout the waves. I also worked on the splashing foam around the horses' hooves. The only step I have left is signing the artwork! Prints of this painting are now available. Click here to view prints for sale.