Capone

"Capone" 8x10

I painted this impromptu study of my boxer Capone, in early December 2011 (above image). That day I was "too busy" to paint, as usual. But as I was passing through the living room, I caught myself staring at this scene. It was such a familiar sight, and particularly beautiful, with the sun burnishing and sculpting the shape of Capone's body, and reflecting blindingly off the floor. When I saw the easel standing nearby, I was no longer "too busy."

I am so grateful I made this spur-of-the-moment decision. Less than one month later, Capone passed away from unexpected medical conditions.

About a week later, I did one more painting of him, still having no idea he was about to fall ill. The painting reveals a slump starting to show in his posture. This was the last painting of him. I feel so lucky to have squeezed in two portraits while I still had time with him.

"Capone's Mug" 8x10

Below is the only other painting of Capone I have done, a tiny 3x4 canvas painted in 2009, on my back porch. It's so odd that I wasn't moved again to paint him, until the last month of his life, in 2011.

"Summer Shade" 3x4

Fortunately there were plenty of photos. I will let the images below speak for the friendship and cuteness that I experienced with him. As you can see, Capone often made himself a part of my painting experience. 

Christmas 2011

Capone and his "brother" Ember both loved looking out the door.

Capone in a scarf knitted by my mom. I wish I would have more chances to paint that mug from life. 

Critiquing my Radnor Lake walkway painting

He's making sure I stay at my easel

The critic in action again

Sometimes he would make some improvements

Just a gratuitous picture

I hope the paintings and photos gave you a little of the enjoyment I experienced during my too short time with Capone.