Pet Portraits in Watercolor
Deb Watson
Class Preview
1:39
- In-depth Instruction; over 168 mins
- On-demand video access anytime
- Bonus downloadable PDF resources
- Access to class Q&A
Creating a Strong Composition
27:03
Want to capture your pet's personality with watercolors? Artist Deb Watson is going to show you how! Start off by picking the best picture and then decide your composition. Deb demonstrates creating value sketches that will bring form to those furry friends.
Transferring Images & Creating Your Palette
30:22
Learn to transfer your pet's image with graphite paper -- a quick and easy way to start your painting. Then dive into colors by choosing your palette. Deb recommends using a limited number of colors for a smart, coordinated scheme and shows how to mix them to get all the variety you'll need.
Applying the First Wash
22:15
Break out the paint brushes, it's time to apply the first wash! Deb shows how to lay down a first layer of color on your painting that will help create depth and luminosity and unite the portrait. Deb also demonstrates how to fix color blooms with a fan brush for flawless painting.
Realistic Features
28:03
Bring your pet's portrait to life and capture its personality by learning to paint realistic features. Deb delves into how to layer and lift eyes for both cats and dogs, create unique textures (such as a dog's bumpy nose) and depict different ear forms.
Different Kinds of Dog Fur
21:30
No two dogs are exactly alike -- especially when you're talking about their coats. Deb shows you ways to approach painting for all fur types and defining fur with contour lines. She also shows off a few painting tricks that help suggest texture without getting bogged down in the details.
Cat Fur: Details & Distance
18:45
Now that you've got dog fur down, move on to a cat's coat! Learn how to paint with short, directional strokes that mimic a cat's fur and make your colors pop. Then Deb shows you how to take some artistic license with tails and whiskers and finishes with ways to convey fur from a distance.
Background & Finishing Details
19:52
Wrap up the class by learning about background varieties that will make your pet practically leap out of your portrait. Then Deb shows how to use masking fluid to create fur edges -- a great trick when your pet is backlit -- and how to cast shadows to convey depth and realism.
Learn how to paint watercolor pet portraits with confidence alongside award-winning artist Deb Watson. Start class with tips for choosing a reference photo, selecting a composition and creating value sketches to establish your furry friend’s form. Next, you’ll easily transfer the main shapes of your pet portrait with graphite paper. Prep your palette as Deb helps you select harmonious colors, mix all the variations you need and apply your first beautiful wash. Then, create contour lines to define any dog’s fur, and use directional strokes to mimic any cat’s coat. Bring your work to life as Deb guides you through painting realistic pet eyes, noses, ears and more. Plus, find out how different backgrounds can add instant dimension to your work.
Deb Watson
After retiring from the nursing profession, Deb Watson is now a full-time artist whose work has won numerous awards and been accepted in juried exhibitions across the United States. Along with painting, Deb loves to help people discover that it's never too late for art to improve their life or for them to improve their art. Deb is the author of Watercolor Basics as well as articles for a variety of books and magazines.
Bonus materials available after purchase