plate no. 1412
Kestrel
Jan Mankes, 1910
study guide
est. 8 hrsapproach — 8 steps
- step 01
Sketch the basic shapes of the kestrel and background elements, paying attention to proportions.
- step 02
Apply a thin, warm-toned underpainting to the entire canvas.
- step 03
Begin blocking in the main color areas of the kestrel, starting with the mid-tones.
- step 04
Gradually build up the darker and lighter values, focusing on creating a sense of form and volume.
- step 05
Mix subtle variations of browns, oranges, and yellows to capture the kestrel's plumage.
- step 06
Add details to the eyes and beak, using small brushes and precise strokes.
- step 07
Paint the background with soft, blended colors, creating a sense of depth.
- step 08
Add the thin branch detail last.
color palette
primary · burnt sienna · raw umber · titanium white
secondary · yellow ochre · ivory black
Achieve the kestrel's plumage by mixing burnt sienna with raw umber and small amounts of yellow ochre and white. Use ivory black sparingly to create darker shadows.
techniques
- ·glazing
- ·dry brushing
- ·blending
- ·layering
common pitfalls
- →Overworking the details too early in the process.
- →Using colors straight from the tube without mixing.
- →Creating harsh lines instead of soft transitions.
- →Ignoring the subtle tonal variations in the plumage.
materials
surface · stretched canvas
required
- ·stretched canvas (12x12 inches)
- ·burnt sienna oil paint
- ·raw umber oil paint
- ·titanium white oil paint
- ·yellow ochre oil paint
- ·ivory black oil paint
- ·linseed oil
- ·#2 round brush
optional
- ·palette knife
- ·medium gloss
- ·#6 flat brush
Use high-quality oil paints for best results. Pre-toned canvas with a warm underpainting is recommended.
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