Polar Bear in Snow Storm - Oil Painting

Polar Bear in Snow Storm

Just trying something new. I generally paint smaller oil figures because I use just a painting knife (and no brushes). I was unsure about using a painting knife to cover a larger canvas. It took a little more time, obviously; but went okay. My painting surface for oils is unprimed canvas mounted onto a wooden panel with 3/4 inch cradled sides. I find this gives significant tooth for the paint and excellent support for the pressure of the knife. I then tack down the back and edges of the left-over canvas with the old fashioned copper tacks, my favorite part. As a last touch, I usually brush on a coat of varnish. These can be framed or left bare.