Monogram Mural

My latest mural was a monogram for a little girl's room. The colors match the clients bedding and window treatments.

This mural was fully designed and done by me, Manassas artist Kelly Campbell

Latest Breyer Creation

This lovely paint comes from Texas. I also wanted to take the time to discuss what goes into my creations.

1. Carving Process- I use a dremel tool to carve out the horses ears, hooves, and nostrils, but I have found numerous uses for this tool. It was a great investment and I suggest it for anyone going into the hobby.

2. Removing Seams- For large seams I use the dremel first, then take fine grade sandpapers to smooth out the logo and extra seam.

*Making the horse anatomically correct. I use an epoxy that is two parts that you have to mix together. This is nice because I only use what I need. I also can smooth it out with water and you can't even tell it wasn't apart of the original mold in the first place. "What epoxy do you use?" shhhh my secret!

3. Painting- Every hobbyist has different ways of painting their breyer. Some remove all previous paint and start with a clean slate. Some primer the model. I just paint over the existing paint with acrylics. I work sections at a time. I know some have used pastels over acrylics--
I have found that I am comfortable using acrylics so that's all I use. Sometimes I will mix pearl pigment into the paint to give the coat shine.

4. The Details- these are key to a realistic horse. I use a fine brush to add mane and tail hairs against skin. I make sure the eyes aren't just black, and the hooves have realistic striping and coloration.

5. Varnishing- I spray a layer of matte varnish first, allow to dry, then use a fixative over top of that. "Why fixative?" Because I've found it's a good balance between glossy and matte finish. Also, matte finish tends to leave a chalky white residue on dark horses.

6. Glossing- I find that glossed eyes really give the horse "life". I have used glass paint gloss, hodge podge, and even clear nail polish. I gloss the eyes, hooves, nostrils, and corners of the lips.

That's about it! I really enjoy doing custom horses and hope someday I can do many many more!! It's an expensive hobby to do right, but it is well worth it when you finish the piece. It also takes alot of time and practice. I have at least 3 not so great horses in my herd, but they are special because each one was a learning experience!!

OPEN HOUSE

Yes everyone! It's finally happening. After having my studio in Occoquan, Kelly's Artbox, for over a year now I am finally having my open house in collaboration with Lisa Julia Photography (http://www.lisajuliaphotography.com). It is Sunday, October 5th, from 11-6PM.

There will be all kinds of awesome things like homemade food, drinks, storytelling and face painting for the kids. There will also be some sweet deals from me and Lisa. I'll be offering $75 off any mural over $200 and specials on jewelry. Lisa is offering her session fee as a print credit for the first 3 bookings.

You'll also get to meet us, and see some gorgeous artwork and photographs!

Hope to see you there!