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I wanted to share these photos I received last month from one of my clients, Sarah. This very natural image - which was quite challenging to make look 3D. I think it really works in her front parlour and even fits in with the curtains... #katelaffargueartist #artist #portraits #petportrait #arttips #landscapepainting #paintingflowers
In recent months, I have noticed random but important acts of kindness. So, what is a Random Act of Kindness… a spontaneous, selfless action intended to bring positivity or help to others, often without expecting anything in return. The acts I’ve seen include a lone mitten hung on railings, people holding a door open for a stranger, and someone buying a hot drink for a homeless person. On a personal note, I took my young grandson out for a walk last week and, when we got home, realised we’d mislaid one of his wellies. We re-traced our steps and a kind stranger had put it in a safe, easy-to-spot place. It put a smile on both our faces. These acts promote positivity and can create a ripple effect, inspiring others to act with kindness and compassion, which may even result in a more supportive community. Never underestimate how small gestures can have big impacts on other peoples' lives. #katelaffargueartist #artist #portraits #petportrait #arttips #landscapepainting #randomactsofkindness #kindness
This is how I painted a special Ragdoll cat... 1) There are various reasons why I decided to paint this Ragdoll. She is a particularly beautiful cat who has stunning blue eyes, lots of very soft white and grey fur as well as very long whiskers. She is also much loved by her cat “parents”… 2) Originally, this was going to be a square picture. However, I decided that the cat’s whiskers naturally led the viewer’s eye into the painting (i.e. a rectangular portrait made a better composition…). 3) First of all, I drew my subject using a soft B pencil. 4) Then, using a putty rubber, I lifted off as much of the pencil as I could, whilst leaving a feint pencil outline. Otherwise, the pencil lead becomes trapped under the paint and dirties the painting… 5) I used an old, fine brush to apply the masking fluid (to protect the white areas, including the whiskers). 6) Although this cat is white, I can see lots of different colours in her fur and even in her eyes. I used all of these colours plus yellow ochre… 7) The paper is often quite wet when I am painting. It is important to avoid little puddles, whenever possible. They can be removed by using a dry brush and kitchen towel. 8) Quite often, I turn my stimulus photo and my painting upside down and paint like that as it helps me to observe my subject better… 9) A subject’s eyes are super important - for the success of the painting - so I look carefully at: the eye shape; where the highlights are; and the various colours that I can see in the eyes. Like all things in life, if you want to get better, it really helps to practise. 10) I look at my source photo regularly throughout the whole painting process and I often do not remove the masking fluid for quite a long time. However, it is crucial to not leave the masking fluid on the paper for too long or it may stain and even damage the paper. 11. When I am mid painting, I take the time just to sit and look at what I have done so far. I consider colour and tone in particular. 12. The last two pictures show the difference between the painting under electric light (yellowish) and then in natural light…(infinitely preferable). Happy Painting.
Spent a very pleasant half day visiting Bruges in Belgium... My sisters and I started out in a very pleasant café, drinking hot chocolate and eating pancakes...We visited a lovely Chocolaterie to buy Belgium chocolate and nougat... We did some Christmas shopping and had a smooth journey home...Great fun!
I hope some of you might find this post interesting. These photos show how I went about painting my Christmas robin... 1. I felt really inspired by David Smith’s beautiful photo and really appreciate him allowing me to paint it... The image is clear and the colours are very attractive. The composition is also pleasant. 2. I used what’s called a “limited palette”. This means that I only used a few colours: Yellow ochre, Alizarin Crimson, Ultramarine Blue, Cadmium Red, Burnt Sienna, Sap Green. 3. I have a high-quality copy of the robin to refer to. This is on photographic paper so the colours are more accurate and longer lasting than on printer paper. 4 I always use 2 pots of water, one for washing my brushes regularly and the other for thinning the paint. 5. I use very high calibre Winsor & Newton paper, professional water colour paints and brushes. 6. I build up the painting in layers, starting with the lightest first, getting gradually darker and I allow each layer to dry properly. 7. I refer constantly to the original image to check that I am on track... 8. I also put my painting and the original photo into black and white regularly to check that the tones are correct and that my painting has depth and looks 3D. 9. I never use black paint as that would flatten and/or deaden the painting. Instead, I mix Burnt Sienna or Burnt Umber with Ultramarine Blue to make what looks like black... 10. To paint shadow, I use a mixture of Ultramarine Blue and Alizarin Crimson... 11. I do my best to take regular breaks and step away from my painting and think about it. Sometimes, there are small changes to be made. 12. My key aim is to capture the essence of my subject rather than to do an exact copy. I look forward to sharing more with you in 2025. Wishing you a very Happy Christmas and a wonderful New Year. #katelaffargueartist #arttips #christmasrobin #wildlifepainting
If you have been considering commissioning a portrait of a beloved pet or family member as a gift, I have a new idea you might like. I am now offering a gift voucher plan which can be paid for in installments. All you need to do is pay the initial first installment of £100 and I will send you a beautiful presentation gift voucher confirming the commission and giving you something to place into the hands of your loved one this Christmas. Prior to you making the first instalment, we will confirm in writing the details of the commission, the total fee payable and the instalment plan. This will give you a personal and creative gift that will light up the face of your loved one and give them something exciting to look forward to in the New Year. Contact me on 07891 656743. #christmasgiftideas #katelaffargueartist #PetPortrait #CanterburyArt
Every year, we bake a Christmas cake, according to my Mum’s tried and tested recipe. We cover this delicious fruit cake in marzipan and then we ice it... We have been enjoying this tradition ever since we were children and our Mum taught us how to bake... My Mum once spent 2 weeks painting a cake (with edible dyes) but then would not let her brothers and Mum eat the cake for several weeks. They were not impressed! These days, I get together with my sisters and my sister-in-law and, usually, with my daughter/s too to decorate our cakes together...We always have a good laugh.
I went wreath making recently to raise money for the Community fridge at the Baptist church, where, funnily enough, I had my first ever Exhibition in 2021...
Yesterday, we had a very interesting tour backstage at the Marlowe theatre... After supper, we then watched the pantomime called "Beauty and the Beast". This was a very enjoyable experience, cleverly done and genuinely funny with some excellent performances by the cast. I think it is only the second pantomime I have ever been to. As such, I went along with no expectations. That said, I can definitely recommend "Beauty and the Beast". If you get the chance to go, go! #marlowetheatrecanterbury #marlowetheatre #beautyandthebeast #panto
Here are just a few of the portraits I’ve painted. If you’d like someone special captured in a portrait then please get in touch via message or on my website #art #artist #katelaffargueartist #portraitpainting
One of the mediums I paint with is watercolour. This style of painting dates back to ancient times - the first watercolours were used by the Egyptians over 4,000 years ago for decorative papyrus art. Although it has this long history, it still remains a challenging skill to master. You must gradually create your painting, balancing the colours to achieve brightness and light effects. And you cannot cover up mistakes with thick layers of paint like in oils or acrylics. #artist #katelaffargueartist #paintportrait
Do you know that I never use black paint in my watercolour painting? I mix deep, rich colours like ultramarine blue, burnt sienna, and deep green to create darker shades. This approach gives a more vibrant and natural depth to shadows and darker areas, avoiding the flatness that pure black can sometimes bring. Using these blends of colours allows for more subtle tones that black cannot achieve. #artist #petportraits #katelaffargueartist #arttips
Here is a wonderful snapshot of my recent exhibition in Folkestone. I met so many fascinating people throughout the whole two weeks. For those of you who were not able to visit, there is still an opportunity to view and purchase one of my original or limited edition paintings. I would love to arrange a time to chat with you and to consider whether you would like to commission me to bring someone or something special to life in a painting for you or a loved one… Due to the success of my Exhibition, I will be making a donation to the Kent, Sussex and Surrey Air Ambulance Charity. I was touched that a number of my clients were keen to also make a donation themselves. #artist #petportraits #airambulancekss #katelaffargueartist
Today is my last proper day at 8 Squared gallery in Folkestone (no 64, The Old High St, CT20 1RN) and I just wanted to say a HUGE thank you to everyone who encouraged me to have a “pop up” gallery here and who has supported me, either by buying a painting and/or a card or via their presence... My gallery has definitely generated considerable interest, not just amongst the locals but also from all the many visitors to Folkestone who have popped in for a closer look at my paintings (mostly watercolour, some oil) as well as to commission me to paint their beloved dog and/or cat... Spending two weeks exhibiting in Folkestone’s “Artists’ Quarter” has been a very pleasant experience and I am looking forward to working with many of the people I have met here in the future. Thank you. Kate
Just a few days left to come and see my pop up gallery. Doors close after Tuesday 5th Nov. #visitfolkestone #artist #petportraits #artgallery #katelaffargueartist
I am very touched by the number of friends and family who have not only supported me in this new venture but who have also come to visit my “pop up” gallery on the Old High St, Folkestone (CT20 1RN)...It means a lot. I know I didn’t manage to capture everyone on camera but here are some of your wonderful smiling faces. Thank you.
I will make a donation to what is now known as the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance, K.S.S. for every original watercolour and oil painting that I sell and for every commission that I gain during this, my second (and final) week exhibiting in Folkestone. On 25 January 2012, the Kent Air Ambulance rescued my Mum after a car accident. They flew her to The Royal London hospital in Whitechapel... Although Mum was completely paralysed and died 12 days later, the K.S.S team’s swift action, their professionalism, their competence and kindness enabled us to spend precious time with her. It also meant that we, her family and friends were able to say “Goodbye”. We will forever be grateful to K.S.S. The work K.S.S. do is as invaluable as they are irreplaceable. The cost of keeping a helicopter in the air per hour is considerable… Even if you do not like Art (or do not want to buy a painting) but feel like making a donation (which can help secure the future of this incredible service and the amazing people who work for K.S.S.), then please come on in and make a donation (or make it online directly to K.S.S.) Make your kindness count. Thank you. Kate (the Artist at 8 Squared gallery, No 64 the High Street, Folkestone, CT20 1RN) until 5 November2024
Art takes on so many wonderful forms. I’ve been enjoying welcoming so many people to my new exhibition all under the watchful eye of Banksy’s ‘Art Buff’. If you’ve not been to Folkestone’s Creative Quarter recently then you really should come along. So much to see. I’m at Eight Squared Gallery, The Old High Street. #folkestoneart #visitfolkestone #artgallery #artist
Step into my brand new exhibition... Open now until 5th Nov, at Eight Squared Gallery, Folkestone. Whether you’re looking for a special gift or you’d like to share in my passion for art, I look forward to meeting you there. I’ll be there throughout the week. #folkestoneartists #artgalleries #artist #petportrait #visitfolkestone #artlovers #artgifts
I was delighted to welcome Revd Chris Johnson to Eight Squared gallery yesterday. Like me, Revd Chris is new in town.... Funnily enough, he got married recently in our local church, St. Stephen’s, Canterbury (which I have painted no less than four times in the course of the year)....He seemed to really like my watercolours... I wish him every success in his new post at St Mary & St Eanswythe C.of E. Church in Folkestone, CT20 1SW #folkestonechurches #stmaryandsteanswythechurch #artist #folkestoneartists
I’m here at my brand new art exhibition at 8 Squared Gallery, 64-66 The Old High Street, Folkestone. Art connects us all in so many ways. I look forward to sharing my passion with you. I’ll be here until Tuesday 5th November. #artgallery #artist #folkestoneartsociety #artlovers #petportrait #familyportraits
Just one day to go until my Brand New Exhibition opens. I’m looking forward to seeing lots of you there over the next two weeks. Just a reminder that my exhibition is at 8 Squared Gallery, 64-66, The Old High Street, Folkestone. CT20 1RN. It opens tomorrow, Wednesday 23rd October until Tuesday 5th November. Opening Times: Mon-Fri 10am until 4pm. Sat-Sun 10am until 6pm. I will be there throughout the exhibition so I look forward to sharing my passion with you. I will also be available to discuss new commissions if you have a vision I could help bring to life. Here are just some of my favourite paintings to enjoy in the meantime. #artexhibition #artgallery #galleryopening
I’d like to share some of the beautiful birds I’ve painted. Enjoy. #KateLaffargueArtist #RSPB #BirdLovers #ArtLovers #Artist
I had a fantastic time visiting this exhibition on Friday ‘Crown and Coronation’ at Canterbury Cathedral. Did anyone else go? Even if you’re not a fan of the monarchy, this event was spectacular. Art really does take on so many interesting forms. #canterburyart #artlover #canterburycathedral
I am an artist who specialises in painting people, pets and nature. Here's a little bit about me and my work: • Every painting is absolutely unique. • My style has been described as photorealism. • I paint with the highest quality watercolours, acrylics and oils. • I enable people to own a bespoke, personalised piece of art, something they can treasure forever. I have a brand new exhibition opening on Wednesday 23rd October in Folkestone, right in the heart of the town. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a collector, or simply looking for inspiration, please find the time to come and enjoy a moment of contemplation. Come along to: 8 Squared Gallery, 64-66, The Old High Street, Folkestone. CT20 1RN. It will run from Wednesday 23 October until Tuesday 5 November. Opening Times: Mon-Fri 10am until 4pm. Sat-Sun 10am until 6pm. I will be there throughout the Exhibition so I look forward to sharing my passion with you. I will also be available to discuss new commissions if you have a vision I could help bring to life. #artexhibition #artgallery #galleryopening #supportlocalartists #artlovers #artcollectors #folkestoneart
I’d like to share a story with you about one of my clients, John. He and his wife lost their beloved dog Pax. John wanted to create a lasting memory of Pax for his wife as a touching surprise. My style has been described as photorealism so I can capture the essence of a pet or a person, and bring them to life on the page. John and I spent time looking for a photo that best captured Pax and I then set to work. 🌟 When I revealed the painting to John he was truly taken aback and that means more to me than anything. 🌟 I would like to create lasting memories for you. 🌟 I’ll be exhibiting some of my unique pieces at an Exhibition in Folkestone, Kent, from Wed 23rd Oct until Tues 5th Nov. Here you’ll see a selection of pets, portraits, and nature that I’ve painted using the highest quality watercolours, acrylics and oils. There will be an opportunity to purchase a selection of pieces, both original paintings and limited edition prints. I’d love to chat with you about new commissions, if you have a vision or memory you’d like brought to life. Venue: 8 Squared Gallery, 64-66, The Old High Street, Folkestone. CT20 1RN. 📅 Dates: Wednesday 23 October until Tuesday 5 November. 🕰️ Opening Times: Mon-Fri 10am until 4pm. Sat-Sun 10am until 6pm. Extra Info: Public parking nearby, and a selection of cafes and restaurants. #artexhibition #artgallery #galleryopening #artlovers #folkestoneart #petmemorial #dogportraits #catportraits
Exclusive Invite I’ll be showcasing selected pieces of my artwork at the ‘8 Squared Gallery’ in Folkestone, Kent. I’ll be there from Wed 23rd Oct until Tues 5th Nov. 🖼️ Venue: 8 Squared Gallery, 64-66, The Old High Street, Folkestone. CT20 1RN. 📅 Dates: Wednesday 23 October until Tuesday 5 November. 🕰️ Opening Times: Mon-Fri 10am until 4pm. Sat-Sun 10am until 6pm. 🅿️ Extra Info: Public parking nearby, and a selection of cafes and restaurants. #artexhibition #artgallery #galleryopening #supportlocalartists #artlovers #artcollectors #folkestoneart
Come along to my exclusive new Art Exhibition in Folkestone, Kent. I’ll be there from Wed 23rd Oct until Tues 5th Nov. I’ll be showcasing a selection of portraits, pets, wildlife and nature that I’ve painted using the highest quality watercolours, acrylics and oils. I am passionate about what I do and would love to share my work with you, whether you’re an art enthusiast, a collector, or simply looking for inspiration. Everyone is welcome. There will be an opportunity to purchase a selection of pieces, both original paintings and limited edition prints. I’d love to chat with you about new commissions, if you have a vision or memory you’d like brought to life. Venue: 8 Squared Gallery, 64-66, The Old High Street, Folkestone, CT20 1RN. Dates: Wednesday 23 October until Tuesday 5 November. Opening Times: Mon-Fri 10am until 4pm. Sat-Sun 10am until 6pm. Extra Info: Public parking nearby, and a selection of cafes and restaurants. #artexhibition #artgallery #galleryopening #supportlocalartists #artlovers #artcollectors #folkestoneart
Fame at last 🤣! The Kentish Gazette article about my exhibition is small but mighty...💪💪💪
I am thrilled to announce that my Tree Frog collection is now available to purchase as cushions, prints and canvasses at https://www.wraptious.com/collections/autumn-2021-submissions-by-kate-laffargue for a limited time only. Wraptious plants 3 trees per order 🌳🌲🌴 If you'd like to support me, please go to Wraptious' facebook and like my post at this link https://www.facebook.com/Wraptious/posts/4716496075079480 for the chance for me to win the Wraptious featured artist competition and become one of their artists. Each facebook like is a point and every purchase is 50 points. Many thanks for your support. #wraptious #wraptiouscushioncompetition #wraptiouscompetition
So far so good for the first day of my first ever Watercolour Exhibition! So grateful for all the support and the interest in my paintings from visitors. Bring it on! #exhibition #artgallery #proudofmyself
dreamy bonnie #watercolour #art #pet
little lottie being an angelic muse ✨ #angel #watercolour #cavalierkingcharles
my most recent frogs 🐸 #frog #watercolour
Frog painting with glaze on tile, the first painting medium that inspired me to create art in years. I now favour watercolours, which are less forgiving than glaze but more predictable. Look how much the colour changes from the glaze after firing in the kiln! #tilepainting #glaze #frog
These poppyseeds were painted to mark one of the first stages of my daughter's pregnancy- in December 2019 my grandson Ray was the size of a poppyseed! #poppyseed #baby
My favourite Pixar film is Finding Nemo, so that was my inspiration for this watercolour made in early December 2019.
My first watercolour in 16 years became mixed media, using acrylics for the background. Dec 2019. Subject is my 13 year old dog Lottie. #watercolour #cavalierkingcharlesspaniel