Thanks so much Laurene. For a novice like me it's invaluable to have artists like you point out where i'm going wrong and provide advice as to how I can improve.
Jean

I have attempted to put Linda's and Laurene's suggestion of darkening the background behind the bird into practice and am wondering whether this has improved it or is there more that needs to be done? Also any other suggestions for improvement are welcome!

Thanks Laurene
Looking forward to getting back there in February and then heading to Lake Tahoe after that, although the conditions there aren't looking great at present!!
All the best for the festive season and the New Year.
Jean

Thanks Mike
I wish it was me, but it is actually based on a skier at the lovely ski resort of Peisey/Villandry in France- afraid my technique isn't up to that standard!! I can, however relate to the sensation of exhilaration that one feels skiing down those slopes..
Hope you have a wonderful ...

Not sure if it is acceptable to post this here as, although there is drawing involved, it is done more with pan pastel than pencil, however would appreciate any comments, suggestions or critiques

Thanks for the suggestion, Laurene and Linda. I will definitely darken the background. Actually this is a male Great Bower Bird which was in the grounds of Cicada Lodge where we stayed near Katherine in the Northern Territory . They are more common in the far north of Australia and unlike most male ...

I thought this bower bird which was busily building its bower and collecting colourful objects to attract a mate would make an interesting subject to draw, but am struggling with it and am wondering what it needs and whether it is worth persevering . I have used panpastel in the background and ...

Thanks for the advice Linda. Will definitely give it a go - got nothing to lose at this stage and if I do mess it up it will have been a useful learning exercise. Really enjoyed your post showing Mike's studio. It certainly makes you appreciate how much effort he puts into these invaluable videos ...

Only just seen this Linda as I must admit I haven't been into the forum for a while! As usual really great advice. This is something that I really do have to work on as I know I have a tendancy to try to put in too much detail.
You say that the pastel can be worked over and over again, so should I ...

Good advice Laurene and yes it is a good idea to source other references - only problem is that this is a tiny little village, not easily accessible and certainly not touristy, hence it is difficult to find many photos of it. Of course it would have been great if I could have done some sketches on ...