35 Bird Colored Pencil Drawing

November 16, 2023 Post a Comment

Beautiful Color Pencil Drawings Of Wild Birds unique rare bird from uniquerarebirds.blogspot.com

Introduction

In the world of art, colored pencil drawing is a popular medium that allows artists to create stunning and vibrant artworks. One particular subject that has captivated artists throughout the years is birds. The intricate details and beautiful colors of birds make them a perfect subject for colored pencil drawings. In this article, we will explore the art of bird colored pencil drawing and provide tips and techniques to help you create lifelike and stunning bird illustrations. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, this article will provide valuable insights to enhance your bird drawing skills.

Choosing the Right Reference

Selecting a High-Quality Reference Photo

The first step in creating a bird colored pencil drawing is to choose the right reference photo. Look for a high-quality photo that captures the essence of the bird you want to draw. The photo should have clear details and vibrant colors to serve as a visual guide for your artwork.

Consider the Bird's Pose and Composition

When selecting a reference photo, consider the bird's pose and composition. A dynamic or interesting pose can add visual interest to your drawing. Additionally, pay attention to the composition of the photo and how the bird is positioned within the frame. This will help you create a well-balanced and visually pleasing artwork.

Materials Needed

Colored Pencils

The most important material for bird colored pencil drawing is, of course, colored pencils. Invest in a set of high-quality colored pencils that offer a wide range of colors and good color pigmentation. Brands like Prismacolor and Faber-Castell are known for their vibrant colors and smooth application.

Paper

Choosing the right paper is essential for colored pencil drawing. Look for a heavyweight paper with a smooth surface that can handle multiple layers of colored pencil. A paper with a slight texture can also add depth and texture to your bird drawing.

Other Tools

Besides colored pencils and paper, there are a few other tools that can enhance your bird colored pencil drawing. These include a pencil sharpener to keep your pencils sharp, an eraser to correct any mistakes, and a blending tool such as a blending stump or a tortillon to create smooth transitions between colors.

Basic Techniques

Layering

Layering is a fundamental technique in colored pencil drawing. Start by applying light layers of color and gradually build up the intensity and depth. This technique allows you to create realistic textures and vibrant colors.

Burnishing

Burnishing involves applying heavy pressure with a colored pencil or a blending tool to blend and smooth out the colors. This technique can create a polished and realistic look, especially for bird feathers and beaks.

Blending

Blending is another technique that can add depth and dimension to your bird colored pencil drawing. Use a blending stump or a tortillon to softly blend the colors together and create smooth transitions.

Feather Texture

Birds have unique feather patterns and textures. To recreate these textures, use short, directional strokes with your colored pencils. Pay attention to the direction of the feathers and vary your stroke lengths and pressures to mimic the realistic look of bird feathers.

Capturing the Bird's Colors

Observing Color Variations

Birds come in a wide range of colors, from vibrant reds and blues to subtle shades of brown and gray. When drawing a bird, carefully observe the color variations and patterns on its feathers. Use a color chart or reference photo to match the colors accurately.

Creating Depth with Shadows and Highlights

To create depth and dimension in your bird colored pencil drawing, pay attention to the shadows and highlights. Use darker shades to depict shadows and lighter shades to highlight the bird's feathers. This will give your drawing a three-dimensional appearance.

Layering Colors for Realism

Layering colors is essential for achieving a realistic look in your bird drawing. Instead of using a single color, build up layers of different hues to capture the subtle color variations and gradients in the bird's plumage.

Adding Details

Eyes and Beak

The eyes and beak are important features of a bird's face. Pay close attention to the details and textures of these features. Add highlights and shadows to create a lifelike look.

Feathers and Wings

Feathers and wings are the defining characteristics of birds. Take your time to carefully draw each feather, paying attention to their arrangement and direction. Use fine lines and strokes to create a realistic feather texture.

Background

Consider adding a background to your bird colored pencil drawing to provide context and enhance the overall composition. Whether it's a natural habitat or a simple gradient, the background can add depth and visual interest to your artwork.

Tips for Realistic Bird Colored Pencil Drawing

Practice Observation Skills

To create realistic bird drawings, it's important to develop your observation skills. Study the anatomy and characteristics of different bird species and observe their movements and behaviors. This will help you capture the essence and personality of the birds in your drawings.

Start with Light Colors

When starting a bird drawing, begin with light colors and gradually add darker shades. This will allow you to build up layers and create depth in your artwork. It's easier to darken a drawing than to lighten it, so start with a light touch.

Use Reference Grids

Reference grids can be helpful for accurately transferring the proportions of a reference photo onto your drawing paper. Divide both the reference photo and your drawing paper into a grid, and then focus on one square at a time. This technique can help you accurately capture the details and proportions of the bird.

Experiment and Have Fun

Bird colored pencil drawing is a creative process, so don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with your artwork. Try different techniques, colors, and compositions. Allow yourself to make mistakes and learn from them. The more you explore and push your boundaries, the more you will grow as an artist.

Conclusion

Bird colored pencil drawing is a rewarding and enjoyable art form. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can create stunning and lifelike bird illustrations. Remember to choose a high-quality reference, invest in good materials, and practice your observation skills. With time and dedication, you will be able to capture the beauty and intricacy of birds in your colored pencil drawings. Happy drawing!