British Wildlife Art from the Countryside
Squirrel painting : in stages using coloured pencils.
1) Study the squirrel and make sketches
It’s a joy watching squirrels scuttling around the garden – this is one of many who visits regularly for the nuts and berries that grow in abundance, which makes for easy and frequent sketching – and is a great way to get to know the subject.
British Wildlife : Coloured Pencil Demos and Workshops : Squirrels |
2) Draw out the squirrel
Tidied up sketches can be used for looser art but, for a detailed painting, a precise drawing is usually necessary. When drawing out the composition, check significant features are in the right places.
3) Define the eyes, nose and ears
Defining the facial features is important : it helps identify problem areas with the drawing. Once the eyes are correct the subject seems to 'come alive' - then painting usually works out as intended.
4) Build up the layers
Slowly build up the layers of colour to define the animal's form.
5) Add the final detail
The finer details, such as whiskers, were added using very sharp coloured pencils.
British Wildlife Woodland Animals : Step by Step Painting (Drawing) |
For information about forthcoming wildlife art classes, workshops and demos, please make initial contact via the email on the Home page.