I recreate birds in graphite to focus on their body shape, feather details and their eyes. I’ve rendered other bird species in oils to capture their colors, and most of these have been given to family members. Graphite, on the other hand, can draw attention to fine details otherwise missed.
Robert David Atkinson is a photographer who captures birds with intense contrast and layering. After seeing his work, I wanted to recreate that same impact using graphite. The Great Blue Heron is the result.
I chose the heron for its piercing stare, graceful posture and interesting variety of feathers. I see these and egret species often, but from a great distance, at the San Luis National Wildlife Reserve in Merced County, CA. This graphite illustration is an opportunity to see one up close to truly appreciate its form, intricate feathering and piercing eye.
