Pelican Lights

This week the challenge on Daily Paintworks is "Black in sunlight is lighter than white in shadow", which is a study in values. I chose a reference of a pelican in the water because I noticed that the black feathers on his back in the sunlight were lighter in value than the shadow sides of the white feathers. I actually love how it turned out. The water was a challenge for me, too, but after several tries, I am satisfied. :)

Pelican Lights © Dorothy Jenson 2014

6 x 6 inch acrylic on wrapped canvas