Barn owls are fascinating creatures, known for their unique facial features and silent flight. Drawing a realistic barn owl can be a challenge, but with the right techniques and patience, it can be done. In this article, we will provide some tips and tricks for creating a realistic barn owl drawing.
Contents
Materials
Before starting your drawing, gather the necessary materials. You will need a set of pencils ranging from H to 8B, a sketchbook or drawing paper, an eraser, and a blending tool such as a tortillon or blending stump.
Proportions
When drawing a barn owl, it’s important to pay attention to the proportions. The head should be larger than the body, and the wings should be longer than the tail. Use light pencil marks to sketch out the basic shape of the owl before adding details.
Feathers
The feathers on a barn owl are intricate and detailed, but don’t let that intimidate you. Start by drawing the larger feathers with light pencil strokes, and then gradually add in the smaller details. Use a blending tool to soften the edges and create a more realistic look.
Eyes
The eyes of a barn owl are one of its most distinctive features. To create a realistic look, pay close attention to the shape and size of the eyes. Use a darker pencil to add shading and depth to the eyes, and don’t forget to include the reflection of light in the pupils.
Facial Features
In addition to the eyes, the facial features of a barn owl are also important. Pay attention to the shape and size of the beak, and add in the tufts of feathers on either side of the head. Use light pencil strokes to create a textured look.
Wings and Tail
The wings and tail of a barn owl are unique and intricate. Pay attention to the shape and texture of each feather, and use a blending tool to create a smooth transition between the feathers. Use darker pencil strokes to add depth and shading.
Background
When creating a realistic barn owl drawing, don’t forget about the background. A simple background, such as a tree branch or night sky, can add depth and dimension to your drawing.
Practice
As with any skill, practice makes perfect. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempts at drawing a barn owl don’t turn out as well as you hoped. Keep practicing and experimenting with different techniques until you find what works best for you.
Reference Photos
Reference photos can be a helpful tool when drawing a barn owl. Look for high-quality photos that show the owl from different angles and in different lighting conditions. Use these photos as a reference when creating your drawing.
Conclusion
Creating a realistic barn owl drawing can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By paying attention to the proportions, feathers, eyes, facial features, wings, tail, background, and using reference photos, you can create a stunning drawing that captures the beauty and uniqueness of these fascinating creatures.