I started this project as an exercise in using the golden ratio in a painting. I started with a golden ratio template back ground and a simple rectangle shape.

I then added more shapes around the log and developed two characters of the raccoon and fox. I knew at this point I wanted an image of these animals captivated by some wonder but it took me awhile to decide what they were both staring at while sitting on top of the log.

I added a background and landscape to the shapes, attempting to keep the real heart of the image within the ratio.

I settled on the moon as a focal point for the animals focus. Making the more quite large to give the image a sense of wonder.

I added a tree off to the side to help follow the golden ratio lines around the animals, and help frame the image. While giving it more depth.

My next step was to fade the moon so that it looked more like the moon would look like during the day. I also added some leaves to the tree and decided in this scene it is late fall, or early winter.

I then fleshed out the tree and moon giving them more texture and shading.

I then gave the background more detail and added shading and highlights to the characters. Giving them depth and texture.

I then added clouds to give more depth to the image, putting something between the characters and the moon itself, while also giving the lighting effects that establish its sunset.

I added the bushes to the front help frame the image giving it a further depth and giving the feel like the viewer of the image is sneaking a peak at the characters in their moment of wonder.

I finished the image by shading and fleshing out the bushes.