Buttercup is based on a female grizzly who lives in our area. I've been fortunate to have photographed her several times (from a safe distance!). I have lived in bear country for 10 years and have been painting bears for about that long. I try to capture the dignity and majesty (and vulnerability) of these incredible animals in my own whimsical style. Metallic leaf background and paper foreground is a style I've been using for several years. I love the drama and warmth of this combination of materials.