Front and Center
I have several half-finished flower paintings in my sketchbook and allium in bloom that’s calling me from the garden. A Louisiana waterthrush is singing to beat the band by the streamside and a blue-winged warbler just showed up in the thicket by the woods, but there aren’t enough hours in the day to capture them—yet. I just wrapped up teaching The Art of the Bird, so nests have been very much front and center on my desk. At risk of seeming single-minded, I hope you’ll indulge me with another nest posting before I get going on the rest of spring.
Tips & Techniques– No matter your subject, it’s important to pay attention to developing a full range of values from light to dark. Especially with a nest, where it’s easy to get lost in the details, it’s important to start light and build to the darks and details. My students worked on nests that were increasingly complicated, but by paying attention to the light and shadows, they came away with nests that had interest, depth and beauty.
Drawn In 
I will never get tired if your nests postings. Bring them on!
Thanks Maria– I appreciate that. I’m sure you’ll see more in the future.
Alliums blooming, Louisiana waterthrushes singing, a Blue-winged warbler flitting in the thicket, and a painting of a Red-winged blackbird nest on the drawing table – sounds like an excellent spring to me!
That’s true! We’ve had a lot of rain, but it’s lush and green!
You’ve captured the complexity and artistry of the nests while keeping them relaxed and uncomplicated. Seems counterintuitive, but that is what I see. They are delightful.
Thanks so much. I love untangling the complexity and bringing out the beauty of the bird’s creation.
oh oh my! Jean …… post all the bird nests you want! Every one is a treasure (especially those full up with beautiful eggs).