| Author | Message | ||
  Claire Stenson-Ball |
Thank you Robert, I'll look into the book you mentioned. | ||
Robert |
One more thing (and sorry--this below mysteriously posted twice). The word black in terms of fur is a conviencance, nothing more. Try not to think the word "black" as you are observing the dog. Instead just observe the color nuances. I also suggest you give away or flush your tubes of black before beginning and use varying mixtures of Burnt Sienna and Ultramarine Blue. | ||
Robert |
Cathy Johnson was a great book out on painting textures in watercolor--animal fur is treated quite well (it's ever mentioned in the extended title). http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0891344179/qid=1105622725/sr=1-1/ref=sr_1_1/103-3555569-3277440?v=glance&s=books I don't think I can describe how to do it verbally. You really need some step by step instruction with pictures from a book (I learn more from using books than actual classes, personally). It also depends of course on whether you are going to "draw" the fur stoke by stroke with a fine brush or create an impression of fur. Either way, I would check out Johnson's book . I have also seen specific books on painting animals in watercolor. In general, I would say observe the animal closely, do some pencil sketches, and be very attentive of the value areas (lights and darks). From the drawings you should have a fair idea of how to translate the value patterns in watercolor. Often the value patterns with some scattered suggestions of hair supplied by fine brushstrokes with a liner or rigger (I prefer a liner--half way between a rigger and a regular round) will create a painterly impression. | ||
Robert |
Cathy Johnson was a great book out on painting textures in watercolor--animal fur is treated quite well (it's ever mentioned in the extended title). http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0891344179/qid=1105622725/sr=1-1/ref=sr_1_1/103-3555569-3277440?v=glance&s=books I don't think I can describe how to do it verbally. You really need some step by step instruction with pictures from a book (I learn more from using books than actual classes, personally). It also depends of course on whether you are going to "draw" the fur stoke by stroke with a fine brush or create an impression of fur. Either way, I would check out Johnson's book . I have also seen specific books on painting animals in watercolor. In general, I would say observe the animal closely, do some pencil sketches, and be very attentive of the value areas (lights and darks). From the drawings you should have a fair idea of how to translate the value patterns in watercolor. Often the value patterns with some scattered suggestions of hair supplied by fine brushstrokes with a liner or rigger (I prefer a liner--half way between a rigger and a regular round) will create a painterly impression. | ||
Claire Stenson-Ball |
I've just learned of Cheap Joe's and stumbled upon this discussion board this evening. How cool! It's wonderful to see a community of artists supporting and encouraging each other. I have only been painting about a year and a half (with a full time job and kids, it's spuratic at best) but am totally smitten by it! Can any of you give me any tips of painting black fur? I am doing a picture of my sister's dog, which has the fur of a black lab, but I also have a tuxedo cat I'd like to paint some time. Thank you! |
