Stella's winter robin by Michelle Dupuis

This is a lovely acrylic painting Michelle, super cute little Robin?

Oh thank you very much. I have recently got back into painting after 20 years of not picking up a brush, so I feel I am a bit rusty! I am new to this site and it is my first time showing my work to others. I hope to eventually go professional so your encouragement is much appreciated.

This is lovely Michelle - Unless you really want to add to the background I'd be tempted to leave it as it is - it would be a shame to detract from the fine painting of the Robin if the background became too busy.

Lovely painting, sorry no advice on background, I just like what I see.

Hi Michelle just seen your lovely comment on my spaniel dog pastel portrait, thanks so much for that, the Spaniel pastel did turn out like a dream it just all came together so well and it does have a sweet expression on it's face and it is one of the portraits I have been busy putting on my new website that I have finally just about got up and running, it is www.roselle6.wordpress.com have a look if you like, it feels quite strange typing that here, a website with my name in it, anyway thanks again for your lovely comment

I'm with Sheridan. This works beautifully as it is.

Hello, thank you for all your comments. I was concerned that the picture was lacking depth which is why I was in two minds about adding more to the background, but you are right in what you are saying. It would distract from the focal point and look too busy. I know I am highly critical of my own work as I always look to improve, but I am not sure if being so critical is a good or bad thing. I may take it to far sometimes. Thank you all for the warm welcome and I will definately post more paintings in my gallery for you to look at once I've done them. I better get painting!! By they way, I just wanted to say that I am amazed at the quality and talent I have seen in the galleries.

That is a very fine painting. As you were asking for suggestions I agree with earlier comments about not changing the background. However, I think moving the Robin up by perhaps an inch would get him even more attention (rule of thirds maybe :-).

Ah yes, good suggestion. Thanks for your imput Pat. :-).