In these images I have shown the progress of Breached, from sketch to completed oil painting.

Many things go into the creation of a painting that depicts an historic event. I don’t use old photos, but instead have models pose for me, based on my thumbnail sketches and desired interpretation. I often have to find authentic artifacts, such as clothing, pots, tents and firearms from the era. Accuracy is uppermost in my mind when I sit at the easel.

Original sketch from my journal upon which the painting will be based.

The set-up outside the studio based on my idea.

One of many ideas sketched in charcoal.

I decided on this sketch after careful consideration.

Blocking in a single cot, hat, jacket, and table. The leopard and backpack are drawn in.

Painting in the leopard’s head.

I have added mosquito netting, a rug, the lamplight and a trunk with a journal.

I decided to change the rug to a zebra skin.

Here I am examining the pattern of a zebra skin hanging in our home.

Completed painting with warm glow. I added another cot and repositioned the dog.

Editor’s Note: John reposed May 19, 2020, after a short battle with cancer. We miss him dearly, remember him fondly and labor to share the fruit of his labors. Breached, and many, many more of Seery-Lester’s paintings can be found in Legends of the Hunt available for purchase in the Sporting Classics Store.

Published in 2009, this immensely popular first volume in the Legends series depicts the greatest sportsmen and explorers between the years 1849 and 1933. The late John Seerey-Lester’s riveting stories and images bring to life these legendary adventures, from life-and-death encounters with dangerous game to bizarre happenings that defy explanations. Buy Now