The tapirs are beginning to take shape.
The very first thing I do is to set up an interesting 'ground'. I do this with some modeling paste and a comb like tool.
Next, I paint a colour background (in this instance - red, though later I will use yellow and maybe a blue/green)
Then, I put down the shape of the tapir ... simply, graphically.
The next step is to put in some background (I have a liking for Naples Yellow - always have, can't explain it!)
Then it's a once over with some sandpaper ... this bring out the background texture. This is the real fun part as it's where those accidental shapes, colours and textures happen.
So the next steps will be adding the subtleties like colour washes and varnishes.
