My Little beachcomber buddy

"My beachcomber buddy"-16x20 oil

We have our morning walks as well as our evening walks to round out each day. This particular morning we were heading back towards the Ocean Club and Elo was hunting for shells. The sun was starting to bring a sparkle to the water and a glowing aura to her little figure.
I use the repeating diagonal to bring the viewer through the painting and to establish a sense that there is much more before and after what is seen. I purposely omitted any horizon line or distant figures or landmarks. In addition the diagonal brings us right to the subject. The perspective of the viewer, looking down on the child's head,and shoulders reinforces that this is a small child. She is absorbed in the ritual of seeking the ocean's treasures; a universal appeal shared by those fortunate enough to experience ocean beaches.
I used a blue orange harmony which works to create the warmth of the early morning sun and the sparkling effects the sun creates on the water's surface. The long shadow also hints at the time of day.