The personality
Melina was the stubborn yet beloved companion of a dear friend. A proud Alaskan malamute, she carried herself with a thick coat of fur, an untamed spirit, and eyes that reflected both loyalty and mischief. Fiercely devoted to her family in Thessaloniki (yes—with three L’s), she was more than a pet; she was kin, a guardian, and a presence impossible to forget.
Inspiration
When Melina passed away, this portrait became a tribute to her memory. Though I never met her in person, I felt connected to her through stories and phone calls. She would often howl like a wolf, and I would answer her from afar. Those moments, though separated by distance, made her feel close. I wanted to capture not just her likeness, but the essence of a dog who lived both fiercely and freely.
Idea
Over time, as my skills grew, I felt compelled to show gratitude to my friend for encouraging me to return to art. This portrait became both an act of remembrance and a personal expression of thanks. Choosing black board was intentional—it allowed me to explore light and shadow in a way that reflected Melina’s strength, depth, and spirit.
Technique
The portrait was created using mixed media: wax-based and oil-based Faber-Castell pencils on Fabriano black board. It was among my first attempts on black board, a surface that demanded a new approach to layering and light. Unlike my earlier experiments with negative drawing, this piece was built up gradually, stroke by stroke, letting color and texture emerge from the darkness. Against the deep background, her thick fur and luminous eyes came alive in a way no plain paper could capture.
Personal Stance
Although I never met Melina face-to-face, I still felt a bond with her. Our playful howls over the phone remain vivid in my memory. This drawing became a way to honor that connection—to give something back to my friend, to keep Melina’s spirit alive, and to celebrate my own return to art.