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Black Bears Done Differently

In this series, I wanted to capture the common black bear of West Virginia in a new light. I opted for vibrant hues of pink and blue for the bears, setting them against contrasting backgrounds to create a playful feel.

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“He Said” and “She Said”: Unconventional Colors – Unconventional Couple

I know black bears are typically portrayed realistically, but I wanted to use color to evoke a sense of wonder. The pink and blue tones add a touch of playfulness to these majestic creatures. The contrasting backgrounds of each painting, orange for “He Said” and green for “She Said” add the dramatic effect that black bears are famous for.

The titles are obviously a play on a couple of bears that might tell their stories about what they do in the woods, but no-one will really know. Each of these bears insist that you believe them, their eyes implore that their tale is true!

Subtle Realism

Despite the vibrant colors of the bears’ fur, the shimmering bronze muzzles on both bears offer a touch of realism in reference to their natural coloring.

Gansai Paints

The Gansai vibrancy and transparency of these paints allowed for delicate layering, creating a sense of lightness and airiness that complements the whimsical style.

West Virginia Inspiration

I try to incorporate animals that live in West Virginia. Black bears are a common sight here, so featuring them in these paintings felt like a natural fit.

Conclusion

I hope my Gansai paintings of West Virginia black bears offer a new perspective on these fascinating creatures. The unconventional colors and whimsical style, combined with the subtle realism, create a unique and captivating artistic experience.

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These two mini paintings are currently at The Artist’s Marketplace at Lost River. Visit Lost River Crafts for location and contact information.

If you are interested in these two bears, act quickly, they will likely go fast.

Please feel free to use the form below for commissions or gallery appearances. I will answer your request as soon as possible.

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Check out my other paintings at www.tobitokens.com or find out a little more about me at About Tobi!