Capturing Birds in Watercolor

Complex and colorful, birds are one of the most common subjects among wildlife artists. Join artist Alex Warnick as she shares the tips and techniques she’s gained over years of painting birds professionally. Participants will develop skills that empower them to express the beauty of birds while learning watercolor techniques that can be applied to any subject matter. In this two-day workshop, participants will learn how to capture birds’ critical proportions and anatomy, simplify effectively while capturing necessary detail, and avoid common pitfalls.

Throughout the workshop, Alex will demonstrate watercolor techniques using a unique combination of dry brushing, large washes, and gum arabic that allow her to capture rich color and fine detail.

Participants will use provided photographs and specimens to complete a series of exercises, developing drawing and watercolor techniques that will lead up to a finished painting.

The following supplies will be provided for you:

• Gum arabic
• Tracing paper
• Water container
• Paper towels
• A board to tape watercolor paper to

Required Materials:

• Sketchbook (preferably 8x10 or larger)
• 8 sheets of 11”x14” 140 lb. hot press watercolor paper (Either a pad of 11”x14” watercolor
• paper or two 22”x30” sheets of watercolor paper torn into eight 11”x14” sheets will work)
• Drawing pencils
• Kneaded eraser
• Variety of round watercolor brushes ranging from fine detail brushes to larger wash brushes (detail brushes being around size 0 or 1, and larger brushes being around size 6 or 8)
• Watercolor paints (Colors can be whatever you like to work with. The instructor's bird painting palette includes: 
• Ultramarine blue
• Cadmium yellow light
• Yellow ochre
• Alizarin permanent
• Cadmium red light
• Burnt sienna
• Ivory black

Please Note: Classes are held indoors and outdoors. Bring a sack lunch with you each day. Limit 16