I met a lovely woman at one of my market stalls and a series of emails followed that got me creating this cool, pretty complicated and challenging (as far as a child's painting goes anyway) work of art for her Granddaughter. Over time I had a mighty list of things to add to this composition- all things related to Sophia's young life at this time; a snapshot of beautiful memories, brought together against an enchanted backdrop... A veritable wonderland of interesting and quirky components and nostalgic images that will always help her to remember and reminisce on this time in her life. Suggested inclusions to reference were: Mum and dad, Navy references for dad, specific family pets, a wonderful day at the Bush fairy dairy, a gorgeous photo of Sophia on a skateboard, gumboots, a family crest, a deployment to Eygypt ("perhaps some pyramids?") and a favourite stuffed animal. Sophia's very own Kingdom.
Below: preliminary sketches and the painting in progress, as well as artwork details
