DrawWithMike.net

I did this work starting as a demonstration piece on composition, using graphite pencils and incorporating backgrounds. The reference shots of the Frogmouth Owl (which is not an owl, but a nightjar) were taken at a local park this spring. Their nests really are just a heap of sticks thrust willy-nilly into the elbow of a branch. Drawn on Lana Hotpress 300gsm using Staedler mars pencils 2H, H, F, HB, 2B & 4B. 32 x 32 cm. I will enter it into the Mornington art show.

Wonderful textures!! And I love the way the nest spills out of the frame. I always find square compositions quite challenging.

Everything Laurene said... plus....... I love the depth! I always enjoy a drawing when no matter how deeply I look there's always something there to see. The nest just goes on for ever. And the feathers swirl and move. And I'm certain that bird's looking at me very disapprovingly

I always find square compositions quite challenging

I cannot lie - I was initially going to use an old frame for this if it turned out, which is why it is the shape it is. But those proturding bits didn't fit with the frame so have to pay up again.

The nest just goes on for ever.

Doesn't it just! I cannot tell you how many times I regretted starting this! The only real saving grace was that as it was a demo piece, I could work on it in one hour stints during classes otherwise I would have gone totally bonkers.

I love everything about this piece. Outstanding. The protruding nest reàlly sets this off.

Thanks Tim. It was a bit of a slog to complete - but go there in the end!

I really love the nest spilling out the edges, it gives it so much impact! Very realistic, it's stunning

Lovely drawing...
To me the graphite drawing is-and always will be something very special.
I chosen this medium years ago, as a boy yet, this is the medium I started to study more professionally 5 years ago, and this is how I had a great opportunity and pleasure to meet face to face our dear Mike, while join his fur drawing course
THANK YOU MIKE
Firstly I saw your Steam Punk arts Linda, they're my favourite to follow!
I saw some colour drawing studies too, very inspiring indeed, and now the wildlife in graphite...
What else can I say, than you're very talented artist, with great knowledge, not only in artwork matter, but most importantly regarding the anatomy, and other crucial aspects related to your subjects.
You are teaching as well, this is even more important to share your knowledge to those students around you...
Thank you.

(blush)
I started exhibiting with wildlife works in graphite about 20 odd years ago. Then added colour in a limited palette. In the past 5 years I have developed my wildlife into a more mechanical take. All three streams merge and link. But I am always trying and exploring something new in composition and ideas. You don't get to see the unsuccesful ones. lol.

No worries, I'm not after see those, lol
I remember some artist advice - only post the best of the best artwork.
I do show all my work ..., because I keep practice and learn, so some are better looking some less atractive I'd say
Great history of experience behind you indeed
Thank you Linda.