Contemporary Realism - dogs in art
Emma Colbert, "Dogged Determination," soft pastel on Velour paper, 27” x 16”

Pastel artist Emma Colbert is known for her realistic renditions of animals in art, such as dogs in “Dogged Determination” (shown above).

Painting of the Week: “Dogged Determination” by Emma Colbert

My inspiration for “Dogged Determination” came from touring around Europe for three years in a motorhome while continuing to work full time as an artist. Every day I would wake up to new things happening on the mobile doorstep. This particular morning, parked on a high wall overlooking the sea in Denmark, we got the treat of watching these Newfoundlands training for sea rescue. This one was towing a boat in to shore. But what grabbed my attention was the beautiful clear water casting so much reflected light, and the determination on that dog’s face.

I work in soft pastel; Unison Colour is my go-to brand. Built up in many layers in my work to create a realistic feel, pastel can be used in so many both realistic and expressive ways.

Additional Contemporary Realism Pastel Paintings by Emma Colbert:

Contemporary Realism - rabbits in art
Emma Colbert, “Hare’s Stare,” soft pastel on Pastelmat, 14” x 12”
Contemporary Realism - dogs in art
Emma Colbert, “Pet Portrait,” soft pastel on Velour paper, 16” x 16″
Contemporary Realism - landscape paintings
Emma Colbert, “Reflecting on Portrush,” soft pastel on Velour paper, 40” x 27″
Contemporary Realism - dogs in art
Emma Colbert, “The Suntrap,” soft pastel on Velour paper, 19” x 13″
Contemporary Realism - wildlife art
Emma Colbert, “The Wild Swan,” soft pastel on Velour paper, 19” x 13”

Connect with Emma Colbert and see more animals in art:
Website | Patreon | YouTube


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