I was really drawn to do this  particular painting because of the nice color contrast I had in mind for his fur. I also wanted the challenge of doing a large close up shot. It was great fun to do and I look forward to doing some more similar close up pictures of animals and perhaps even people. This was painted on 8×8 gesso board, which can be challenging because of the slippery nature of its surface. But I find that it is good for forcing me to stay loose with my brushwork.