Russian Bear with Attitude

Russian Bear. Fairy Tales Study.
I’m enjoying Carla Sonheim’s “Year of the Fairy Tale” study. This is the Russian bear from “The Frog Princess.” We are doing 3 spot illustrations this month. I think I broke the assignment with this full page scene. I’m learning how to add pastel to mixed media-collage and watercolor.
This is the scene when the Prince is seeking the needle in the egg that will bring his frog Princess back and meets the bear. The bear talks him out of killing him (in a “lighten up dude” sort of way) because the Prince will need the bear later. And he certainly does. I personally like his Harley Davidson heart with wings.
UPDATE: I am now selling original 2014 paintings as I paint them in the shop, here. The 2013 calendar of all paintings is available now as well!
Oh Niya, Your bear is adorable. So big, inviting, warm, protecting. I love him!