Practice makes perfect

Most artists tend to draw birds in profile because they are easier to identify from this angle. When you want to draw a bird, first take a good look at the overall shape of it.

Then jot down what you observed at first sight before adding the beak, eyes and wing details.

Figure 1 shows you simply drawn body shapes and how to start the initial sketch. Some birds which can be seen along sea shores are illustrated in figure 2. Notice how they body shapes are drawn in only in lines. Study how a bird could stretch or contract its neck and the way it uses its long legs.

The first thing a beginner must know before drawing and bird is the study of its anatomy. Proportions measurements and highlights must be studied when starting to draw birds.

Great attention must be paid to the initial sketch of the anatomy of the bird. Once the initial sketch is completed, finish off the lines that define the anatomy of the bird.

Try to improve your skill by studying and practising illustrations shown on Figure 2. With constant practice you will soon able to draw birds from memory. To begin with use a 2B pencil with a sharp point or if you use pen and ink you may draw with a thin nib.

There is excellent practice for drawing form life.

Constantly remind yourself how basic shapes vary with one bird to another. A close study will reveal the wings, beak and tail formation.

Try sketching these interesting creatures. Practice will turn you to be a perfect bird illustrator.