Mama Bison

I created this piece using the highest quality lightfast colored pencils on canvas, blending a modern technique that achieves the depth and richness of an oil painting. The lightfast colors I chose ensure the vibrancy and longevity of the work, while the delicate layering technique allows me to create a smooth texture that mimics the soft, blended qualities of traditional oil paints.
The subject of the piece is a female American bison from LBJ State Park in Stonewall, Texas, that I photographed, using that photo I focused on capturing every detail of her form. The texture of her fur, the way light and shadow play across her muscles, and her natural environment all come together to create a sense of realism and depth. The background gently fades, reinforcing the connection between the bison and the landscape, while the bison herself exudes both strength and grace.
This innovative method blends the smoothness of colored pencil with the richness of oil painting, giving her form a soft yet dynamic presence. The result is a piece that not only showcases the physical majesty of the bison but also evokes the spirit of the Texas landscape she calls home.