Drawing birds is a fun challenge. Some find it difficult, saying birds are so different than drawing animals. I disagree. It is just the way we think about them that makes it difficult. Instead of over-thinking it and becoming overwhelmed by all of the feathers, think of birds like everything else—in terms of shapes, lights and darks.
COCKATOO
Graphite on smooth bristol
14” × 11” (36cm × 28cm)
SEAGULL AT SUNSET
Graphite on smooth bristol
14” × 11” (36cm × 28cm)
Placing a bird in its natural surroundings makes for wonderful art. This seagull in flight is a perfect example. Study this example for all of the elements we have studied. Look at the waves, the way the reflected light dances off each wave and how it was lifted. You can see the same procedure on the edges of the seagull’s wings.
Always look for the basic shapes in your subject matter. Use lighting to help create the mood of your drawing.
FLAMINGO
Graphite on smooth bristol
14” × 11” (36cm × 28cm)
The lighting in this example is extreme, and it makes the drawing look bold. The extreme contrast of light and dark illuminates the shape of the flamingo. It is easy to see the egg shape in the body and head, and the cylinder in the neck and legs.