July 2, 2017 – The shorebird in my photo was basically a silhouette so I searched to find out what the bird was from it’s shape and size. It appeared to be a Willet, so I used the coloring of that species for my painting. As I learn more about the area, I am sure I will be better able to identify each different type of bird. I like how the close water came out, but feel that the water in the distance isn’t realistic enough.
Now I have to decide what my next painting will be. This time I didn’t have a plan in mind. I might do some studies to practice water, sand, sky, etc. At some time I want to do another large painting of snowy egrets as I was able to photograph a large group in the salt marsh. About 20 were out for a long time feeding and allowed me to get a good number of photographs. That would provide me with the basis for a good painting or two.
With a new grandson on the way, I want to practice painting humans, so a few studies of family members would be a good idea as well.
jackie atkins design 