Guardian Angel gets a Day of the Dead Makeover

For a while now, I've been on the prowl for statues in need of a new look. Here are a couple of projects that have led to this obsession. They are obviously awesome.

Day of the Dead Lady Statue

Day of the Dead Holy Family

Well, I finally came across a statue piece that met my criteria for a similar project (because imitation is the sincerest form of flattery): a bisque Guardian Angel overlooking a pair of children dressed like they just stepped out Hansel and Gretel. At just $2, it was free of chips and imperfections (which  is rare for delicate pieces that make it to thrift stores). YOU ARE MINE. I WILL MAKE YOU BEAUTIFUL!

A few quick (but poor) shots of the statue in it's original state:

First step was to give the piece a good once-over with a compressed air can (goodbye, dust!) and sketch on some detail ideas with a pencil.

I initially had this foolish idea that I was going to do detailed work all over like the "Holy Family." I quickly realized that not only is it going to take multiple coats of paint, but there are way too many small areas where I won't be able to paint without messing up some other area or missing spots entirely.

The solution? Give the whole thing at least once coat of black. This will fill in all the dark nooks and crannies that I won't be able to repaint later in detail. 

In hindsight, I should have given the whole thing a coat of primer before getting started. The bisque is soaking up my acrylics like crazy, which is making me have to do MANY coats before even touching the detail. Unfortunately, I was having one of those impulsive moments and didn't follow proper procedures.

DUURRRR.

I'll add pictures as I make more progress!