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It only takes one great photograph for me to paint a portrait, a beloved pet or a piece of nature that means something to you and I’d be pleased to select the right photo with you. So what makes a great photograph for a painter… • It needs to have a good composition. The subject should be well framed and there should be very little clutter or distraction in the background. • It needs to have clear light and shadow to give it depth. • It needs to be sharp and of a high quality so that I can fully capture the details. • Ideally, it needs to have rich and vibrant colours. • You need to have an emotional connection with the photo and it should evoke a memory that you would like to hold on to. If you have a special photo you’d like me to paint, I’d be pleased to look with you and give an honest opinion of whether I can bring it to life. #katelaffargueartist #artist #portraits #petportrait #arttips #landscapepainting #photography #specialmemory
Here are some of the wonderful pet companions I have painted. #katelaffargueartist #artist #portraits #petportrait #arttips #petlovers #doglover #catlover
“The eyes are the window to the soul”. You can tell so much about a person or animal's feelings and emotions by looking into their eyes. I take great pride in capturing the reality of a subject’s eyes, and it’s often one of the first comments made when someone first sees one of my portraits. The eyes can also be one of the elements of a painting that takes the longest. Without the clarity of the eyes, the emotion and sentiment of the painting can be lost. #katelaffargueartist #portraits #eyeswindowtothesoul #petportraitartist #eyes
I’d like to share a testimonial with you from one of my wonderful clients Roger. #katelaffargueartist #artist #portraits #petportrait #arttips
The world really is a small place, and we regularly come across coincidences. One such coincidence was at my last exhibition… I was delighted to welcome Revd Chris Johnson who had recently married in our local church, St. Stephen’s, Canterbury, which you’ll see I have painted no less than four times. He was thrilled to see the paintings and made my exhibiting them all the more special. #katelaffargueartist #artist #portraits #arttips #landscapepainting #church #smallworld #coincidence
As you may be able to tell from these paintings, I have a particular passion for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. They are such a gentle breed of dog and I have loved painting them. If you have a beloved pet you would like me to paint please get in touch. #katelaffargueartist #artist #portraits #petportrait #arttips #cavalierkingcharlesspaniel #cavaliersofinstagram
I chose the Kingfisher as the logo for my business because I absolutely love Kingfishers. My Mum loved them too. I clearly remember us taking her down the Dordogne (river) in our canoe. We saw a beautiful Kingfisher's blue/green flash past us. It was wonderful. #katelaffargueartist #artist #portraits #petportrait #arttips #landscapepainting #rspblovenature #kingfisher
Good enough to eat…? #katelaffargueartist #artist #arttips #landscapepainting #tomatoes
How to paint a Red Setter 1. You need to be able to see the features clearly, especially the eyes. It is important to have darks, lights and mid tones. 2. Print off a copy of the image you are using on quality photographic paper. 3. Draw out your image using a soft (B) pencil on good quality Watercolour paper (e.g. Winsor & Newton, 300m2/ 140lb, Hot or Cold pressed). 4. Lift off as much of this pencil as you can using a putty rubber. 5. Apply masking fluid to the light/ white areas in the painting. Allow the masking fluid to dry thoroughly. 6. Paint some watered down Yellow ochre over the rest of the painting i.e. where there is no masking fluid. 7. If the paint puddles, lift off the excess paint/ water. 8. Look carefully at the shapes of the eyes and build up gradually in layers. Allow each layer to dry fully before painting the next layer. 9. Paint on some watered down Burnt Sienna. 10. The background is a watery mix of Yellow Ochre and Ultramarine Blue. 11. Start work on the Red Setter’s nose. Consider where the highlights are, the darkest areas and the mid tones. 12. Observe the direction that the fur goes in and use a mixture of Burnt Sienna and Ultramarine Blue (which appear black) to show this. 13. Take a photo of your painting and of the picture inspiring you. Put this photo into black and white so that you can see the tones involved on each picture. Where do you need more darks? More highlights? More shadow? 14. How can you make your image appear redder? (Use Alizarin Crimson or Burnt Sienna..). At this point, my “Red” Setter was looking more like a Golden Setter… 15. Step back from your painting and really look at it. Keep what you like and lift off what you do not like with a wet brush. Do this carefully so as not to damage the paper. 16. I used Yellow Ochre, Ultramarine Blue, Alizarin Crimson and Burnt Sienna to portray my Red Setter. 17. Look again at your painting. What works? 18. Consider the original photo next to your painting. Finally, consider how you are going to mount this painting to show the Red Setter off to her best advantage. Happy painting! Kate #artist #redsettersofinstagram
Karen commissioned me to paint her friend's dog Izzy, a fearless little terrier. It was a surprise present for Christmas. Karen has kindly shared her thoughts on this video. #katelaffargueartist #artist #portraits #petportrait #friendship #dogloverscommunity #terrierlife
This is an incredible piece by @liamthompsonart a very talented artist and teacher. Thanks for all your support Liam.
Happy Feet... #katelaffargueartist #penguins #happyfeet #portraits
This is Zara, a wonderful Red Setter that I was recently commissioned to paint; you'll see she has so many shades to her coat. Look out next week as I'll be sharing tips on how I painted her and the challenges I faced. #katelaffargueartist #artist #portraits #petportrait #arttips #redsetter
Today is Random Acts of Kindness Day. What would you consider to be a Random Act of Kindness? Perhaps you'll make a cup of tea or bake cakes for the people you see today, or you could send a card to someone you haven't contacted in a while or a new connection you have made recently. Ultimately, a random act of kindness is one that is spontaneous, selfless and intended to bring positivity or help to someone else. I'd like to offer a gesture of kindness myself and will give one of my printed cards free to the first 10 people who comment below - tell me which you'd like and perhaps a note sharing your own random acts of kindness. The cards I've had printed are copies of some of my paintings. If you would like to purchase any cards, I am currently offering a selection of 3 cards for £10, message me to find out more. #randomactsofkindness #katelaffargueartist #greetingscardsuk #bekind
Commissioning a watercolour or oil painting from me is a great way to show someone you love them. #love #portraitpainting #katelaffargueartist #giftoflove #family
I love painting people's treasured pets. Let me introduce you to Sally and her wonderful dog Jonnie. Sally commissioned me to paint Jonnie for her husband's birthday. I was initially puzzled by his response, watch this video to see why... #katelaffargueartist #artist #portraits #petportrait #petportraitcommission #petportraitartist
Here's a glimpse into my life as an artist... I first learnt to paint when I was twenty nine and a new Mum. Some years later... I am following my dreams and am proud that my passion is now also my work. Are you following your dreams? #katelaffargueartist #artist #portraits #petportrait #arttips #landscapepainting #followyourpassion
Do you have a favourite flower? #katelaffargueartist #artist #portraits #paintflowers #landscapepainting #horticulture #royalhorticulturalsociety #flowers
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 that 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. 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. Contact me on 07891 656743. #katelaffargueartist #artist #portraits #petportrait #ValentinesDay #UniqueValentinesGift
I hope you enjoy my next Painting Pics & Tips... I had been painting watercolours properly for two months when I did this blue tit back in June 2020... I am proud of it because although I made 5 or 6 mistakes, I was able to correct them, despite the paper being much thinner than the paper I use now. This painting reminds me just to do my best and not be a perfectionist. In the end, it worked out well. The inspiration for my painting came from a calendar. The image is clear, interesting and in good focus so I am grateful to the photographer. In addition, the composition is good. You want to keep looking at the photograph and, hopefully, at my painting too. Your eye needs somewhere to go, somewhere to explore... The white in watercolour is the paper so, at all costs, protect the white areas and white highlights. You can do this by either not painting those areas and/or using a masking fluid pen as you can see in the second picture. Masking fluid can be used to show the direction of the feathers. Masking fluid can be fun to use - although it tends not to do a fine enough line - so use it with care. Be sure to let it dry before you paint up to it or over it. Once the paint is dry, you can peel it off very carefully with gentle rubbing. You must make sure you keep the paper intact or it is game over.. You will notice that I have a white border around my painting. This allows me to gain a better idea of what the finished painting will look like. It is also good practice not to paint right up to the edge. I have also taped my painting to the table. This is to keep it flat even when it is wet. Doing this will help you to control where the paint goes. Build up the blossom and the blue tit in layers: light paint gradually getting darker. Use a hair drier to dry between the layers but have it on a low speed and a gentle heat. Since painting "The Blue tit with blossom" in watercolour, I have learnt my lesson and switched to using only the very best quality paper i.e. Winsor and Newton cold or hot press (300g/m 2 / 140lb). Happy painting! #katelaffargueartist #artist #portraits #petportrait #arttips #landscapepainting #birdpainter #rspblovenature
You may have seen I painted a robin for Christmas. The credit for the image lies with the wonderful photographer David Smith. Although I have yet to meet David Smith in person, he very kindly agreed to send me the beautiful photo of the robin he took. David and I share a love of birds and he has kindly given me access to a wealth of wonderful bird photographs which I plan to paint. Over the next few months, I will share more of them with you. I am planning to have another Exhibition in the future about "Birds". I anticipate that there will be "Native birds", "Exotic Birds" and Birds of Prey"... Watch this space! #katelaffargueartist #artist #portraits #petportrait #arttips #landscapepainting #birdpainter #rspblovenature
Andy commissioned me to paint his two German Pointers as a surprise gift for his wife’s 60th birthday. One of the most important things to me is that, where possible, I meet the animal or person who I am painting. Whilst I have used photographs taken by others, particularly if the animal or person is no longer with us, I can capture new images that I know will work well for portraiture. I am a keen animal lover and getting to know the subject I am painting, whether four-legged or not, is an added benefit of the work I love to do. If you have a vision or memory you’d like brought to life, please get in touch. #katelaffargueartist #artist #portraits #petportrait #arttips #landscapepainting #germanpointer
I will be exhibiting more of my work this year and would value any suggestions you might have for locations I might consider. In case you weren’t able to visit my last exhibition in Folkestone, I wanted to share this beautifully created video, showing some of the highlights. I have been overwhelmed by the positivity shown to me by the visitors, my clients and associates. I do still have a small number of special edition prints available to purchase from the exhibition, so get in touch if you would like more information. #katelaffargueartist #artist #portraits #petportrait #arttips #landscapepainting
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 wonderful pets I’ve had the pleasure of painting. If you’d like me to capture a special companion for you please get in touch.
I’d like to share some of the beautiful birds I’ve painted. Enjoy. #KateLaffargueArtist #RSPB #BirdLovers #ArtLovers #Artist