Dark Rooster - 7

© Ellen Blonder

I'm back on the mainland, eager to add details to the blue jade vine. It's a complicated plant, but more so in the drawing than the painting. 

Dark Rooster - 6

© Ellen Blonder

It's time to work on the background plants. I'm sorry I will also be returning to the mainland before I can finish this.

Dark Rooster - 5

© Ellen Blonder

What was I thinking? Croton leaves have intricate color patterns that feel impossible to capture, and it feels like it's taking forever to paint.

Dark Rooster - 4

© Ellen Blonder

The next thing I want to work on is the yellow croton in the foreground.

Dark Rooster - 3

© Ellen Blonder

I'm working on the rooster first to anchor the painting. It's just too messy overall otherwise to see what's happening.

Dark Rooster - 2

© Ellen Blonder

I needed to add rough color all around to get a better idea of where I'm headed. There's some beautiful croton growing here, and I want to use it in the foreground. I think I'll use some Hawaiian morning glory around the rooster's feet. It grows abundantly along the coast.