Paws For A Cause: Boston Police K-9 Unit
Though we all hope we never have to be, we all hope that we can be Boston Strong.
Inspired by the original photograph taken by Rich Ryan during the days following the tragic events at 2013’s Boston Marathon, this drawing is dedicated to the brave men, women, and canine heroes who risk their own lives to guard and protect our safety.
I have to thank my mom for coming across the picture reposted by one of the dog groups she follows on facebook, because I absolutely loved this photo when I saw it. I remember seeing the K-9 unit during the days of coverage coming out of Boston as they searched neighborhoods for the remaining suspect, and could not believe how disciplined these dogs are, especially when thinking of my two beagle mixes in comparison. So when I saw this photo, something about this dog sitting at attention alone in this larger composition seemed so honorable.
A much bigger thanks (sorry mom) goes to a Boston area photographer, Rich Ryan, for allowing me to do a drawing based on his amazing photograph. Please swing by his website or facebook page to see more of his work. Also, he shared this great non-profit organization with me called Vested Interest In K-9s, Inc., that provides protective vests to police dogs in the United States. 50% of the proceeds made from the 8x10" prints of this drawing will be going to this organization, so be sure to swing by my Etsy shop if you'd like to purchase a copy. It would be greatly appreciated.
Now on to the less exciting stuff.
Paper Used: 400 Series Flannel White Strathmore Artist Paper cut to 9x14".
Prismacolor Colored Pencils Used:
Blue Slate - PC1024
Henna - PC1031
Deca Pink - PC1014
Black - PC935
90% Cool Grey - PC1067
70% Cool Grey - PC1065
50% Cool Grey - PC1063
30% Cool Grey - PC1061
White - PC938%
French Grey 50% - PC1072
French Grey 30% - PC1070
Dark Umber - PC947
Sienna Brown - PC945
Ginger Root - PC1084
Beige - PC997
Cream - PC914
It's sad to say how exited I was to branch out away from my typical use of just Cool Grey to mix it up with some French Grey. It was only used on the sidewalk through, so don't worry, I didn't go too crazy.
Time Spent: 18 hours and 12 minutes.
Up Next: I will be drawing a friend's yellow lab. It will probably be the last drawing I can complete before Bark in the Park on the 18th. I had one more planned, but I guess you will just have to wait a little while longer! Be sure to come say hi at the event, because I am assuming you are all coming, right? No excuses if you live in the St. Louis area, and I hope the rest of you were able to find cheap plane tickets :)
Until next time! Lauren H.
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