Ester Curini is a self-taught artist whose passion is to give a voice to animals through her realistic paintings. Curini is in the Evoke Contemporary Artist’s Spotlight through September 18, 2021. We asked her to share her inspiration with us, as well as her favorite art supplies for creating realistic portraits of animals.
Inspiration For Wildlife Portraits
BY ESTER CURINI
Animals are, and always have been, my driving force and inspiration.
Although I continue to be inspired to paint every kind of animal, like the thoughtful goat depicted in “Guardando ad Est” or “The Mighty Raven,” in recent years I have been focused on the most critically endangered and threatened predators in North America.
I am passionate about wildlife and habitat conservation. I aim to raise awareness of endangered species and to inspire viewers to take action to protect these animals.
In my portraits, each of my subjects is isolated on a white background. This is to put them in the main role rather than in a supporting one, to give them a strong and powerful voice. They need that voice, now more than ever, because the annihilation of wildlife has become an emergency that threatens humans too.
Art Supplies
My favorite canvas to paint on is the “Masterpiece Elite Portrait Smooth Belgian linen,” which is very smooth and great for detailed brushwork.
As for paints, I like Old Holland acrylics the best. Besides having a great color selection, these paints are rich and easy to flow.
I use many brush brands. One of my favorites is the Princeton Velvetouch brushes, which are easy to control and great for details.
Visit Ester Curini’s website at estercurini.com.
Related Article > On Drawing Harbingers of Seasonal Change
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