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This beautiful Mourning Dove caught my eye as it strolled down the sidewalk outside my kitchen window after dinner one evening. It was a subject that begged to be painted - the evening light was perfect: it cast a lovely warm glow on the bird with long cool shadows.

I thought a step-by-step bird tutorial was in order!

Step One.
I usually use cold-pressed paper when painting birds, but a leftover piece of Arches 300lb hot press (7" x 17") was the perfect size and shape for this piece!

I worked on an easel and began with a triad (Azo Green, Quin Coral and Cobalt Blue) in the same way as I do with my portraits. The only difference was that I was very careful to avoid drips! I then went straight to the eyes, beak and feet, followed by both positive and negative painting to begin rendering the feathers. (No masking fluid is used on this piece.)

Step Two.
Each step here is a separate day, which ensures that my painting is completely dry before continuing. 

Using mostly warm colors like Brilliant Orange, Azo green, Quin Burnt Orange along with Cobalt Blue to mix browns, I continue to develop the bird's body. I also used a watery cobalt blue to begin the long shadow on the ground.

Step Three.
I continue to built up the colors and values on the bird. I've glazed over some of my careful negative painting, but I will be able to lift later, creating a softer look on the feathers.

I take a deep breath and paint the long shadow with Ultramarine Blue (for it's granulation) with a bit of Quin Burnt Orange mixed in here and there. It's getting close!

Finishing details.
I glazed over the blue shadow under the tail, hoping to achieve more granulation. It didn't really work but I'm ok with it.

I continue layering warm tones on the body of the dove, suggesting feathers and deepening colors and value. I'm almost finished with this piece when I decide to add scarlet lake down the front of the bird, adding warmth and color harmony with those bright red feet!

The last thing I do is take my small and medium eradicator brushes (small, stiff yet soft, flat brushes) and lift the highlights.

I hope you found this step-by-step tutorial helpful and informative!

Paint. Love. Repeat.