Painting Birds, 1-session class ONLINE: Jan. 26

January 26, EET 18.00-20.00

ONLINE, Live (En/Ro)

While we may miss the vibrant greenery of summer, one of winter’s greatest pleasures is the bare trees, which for a few months each year give us the perfect chance to watch birds. Capturing these birds—whether through photography or scientific illustration—is no easy task. Illustrators often collaborate with photographers and naturalists for this reason. This class will offer you an inside look at how that process works.

You’ll get a printable drawing and a reference photo of a sparrow—one of the most familiar urban birds—sent to your email. So, you could already plan to spend time in nature, observing its movements and colors, and taking visual notes to use them later for your painting activity.

Required materials:

-              One sheet of watercolor paper (A4 size, 300 gsm, hot pressed, satin finish).

-              One sheet of transparent paper, such as tracing paper or baking paper.

-              Pencil and eraser of your preference for transferring the printed drawing.

-              A basic set of watercolor supplies: red, brown, sepia, neutral tints, black, blue, two pointed-tip brushes (for example, Winsor & Newton Series 7, sizes 1 and 4), a water container, and paper napkins.

Beginning with a small feather exercise, we will focus on building overlapping layers and accurately depicting the delicate appearance and structure of soft feathers while maintaining faithful color and overall form.

This course is appropriate for individuals at both the beginner and intermediate levels.

This two-hour watch-and-practice format allows attendees to follow along as I demonstrate each step and provide detailed explanations; individuals may choose to observe or actively paint while listening. The class will be conducted in both English and Romanian, depending on the composition of the group.

Upon enrollment, which requires payment of a nonrefundable fee and submission of your address, you will receive a confirmation email, including a printable mistletoe drawing and the Zoom login link. I look forward to sharing a meaningful and creative experience with you.