Last year was the first time that I took part in Birdtober and I really enjoyed it. I used a 4x4" sketchbook and felt that it was a bit restrictive so I opted for a larger book this time - an 8x8". It is made for watercolors, but almost immediately I felt that the paper was a bit too toothy for my liking. That could be because I use watercolor pencils which I first apply dry and then go over with an aquapen to activate and blend them so I may need a little more practice getting that saturation point correct.
There were actually two prompt lists to choose from this time - a North American list and an International list. I chose the North American list.
Day 1 - Blue Jay
Day 2 - American Robin
Day 3 - Eastern Bluebird
Day 4 - Belted Kingfisher
Day 5 - Northern Mockingbird
Day 6 - Red-Winged Blackbird
Day 7 - Northern Cardinal
Day 8 - Great Blue Heron
I didn't think there was enough contrast, so this happened and I'm still not sure if I like it.
Day 9 - Ruby-Crowned Kinglet
Day 10 - Black-Crested Titmouse
Day 11 - Barn Swallow
Day 12 - House Finch
Day 13 - Carolina Wren
Day 14 - American Crow
I am using a combination of Generals and Derwent Inktense watercolor pencils. The backgrounds on the bluejay, robin, and heron are regular watercolors. And I was able to use my own photos as reference for the bluebird, cardinal, heron, and kinglet.
There's a feature on iphones that I may have mentioned before that lets you identify things like plants/flowers, animals, and I think it will even identify works of art. I am always looking to see if what I've drawn will be correctly identified and it's a small victory when it does. I've even been know to have a celebratory fist pump when that happens.
Excellent work!
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