Rabbits and Pocket Watches

Ah, yes another "Alice" painting.
For some reason the classic fairy tales have always resonated deeply with me
for my painting subjects. I think its the freedom of making a fantasy painting with as many lavish details and layers as I want without it slipping into the "Oh.. your a.. fantasy painter?".
Lisa Frank I am NOT. An illustrator.. yes. Someday I hope to tackle my favorite classical fairy tales like Peter Pan and Sleeping Beauty, but until then I'll experiment and master Alice in Wonderland. Baby steps.
For my series (Yes, I said series!) It'll be the characters from Louis Carol's Alice in Wonderland.
I'm approaching it as though I'm the court portrait painter. Each portrait will have hints as to who each character is, right down to the cuff-links and patterns of fabric.
First I'm starting with the White Rabbit, who is a relatively simple character.
I used a reference photo and a #2 pencil for the rough sketch.

Next, I added my rough shadows.
(Thanks Lisa!)

After that I started the first layer of color for the background and suit.

We'll see how our dear friend turns out, but don't expect it to be a quick painting. Even
With his "Don't be Late" attitude urging me on, I doubt I'll listen.
Stay Artsy,
~Sarah Bosserman