The Sparrow Project

Level 3 Intermediate

The Sparrow is an engaging  subject where you will further develop your ability to draw detail accurately.  

In this module you will learn:

  • How to draw the different types of feathers
  • How to get the feathers to look like they are overlapping
  • How to draw the eye and beak
  • How to draw the branch in "free-hand"
  • How to adjust the feet to suit the shape of the new branch
  • What is "counter-tone" and how you can use it to make things stand out         
  • How to break a complex subject down into sections to make it easier to draw    


There is also a bonus reference photo at the end of another gorgeous sparrow for you to draw, so that you can practice what you have learnt - they would make  a nice pair to frame!                

Take a look the Preview

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What's included in this module?

  1. 1
  2. 2

    • Welcome

    • Part 1 - The Basic Line Drawing Short Demo (incl reference photos)

    • Part 1 - Basic Line Drawing continued (Long Demo)

    • Part 2 - The Line Drawing Detail and the Ghosting

    • Part 3 - The Belly Feathers

    • Part 4 - The Lower Wing Feathers Short Demo

    • Part 4 - The Lower Wing Feathers continued (Long Demo)

    • Part 5 - The Upper Wing Feathers Short Demo - including "Counter-Tone" technique

    • Part 5 - The Upper Wing Feathers (Long Demo)

    • Part 6 - The Head Short Demo

    • Part 6 - The Head continued (Long Demo)

    • Part 7 - The Tail

    • Part 8 - The Legs & Branch

    • Part 9 - Final Stage

    • Bonus reference photo - The Sparrow's Friend!

    • Would you like to leave a review of The Sparrow?

    • You have now finished the course! Would you like to leave a review?

Student reviews:

5 star rating

Enjoyable

Lydia McKechnie

Fun project! It was a real pleasure to draw.

Fun project! It was a real pleasure to draw.

Read Less
5 star rating

Sparrow

Anne Hoyt

This has been a challenging but fun project. Vanessa is such a delighful, encouraging teacher!

This has been a challenging but fun project. Vanessa is such a delighful, encouraging teacher!

Read Less

What do I need to have done before this?

The following modules need to have been completed before you do this project:

  • KEY UNIT 1 - Getting You Started

  • PROJECT 1 - The Vintage Key

  • KEY UNIT 2 - Switching on the Creative Side of your Brain

  • PROJECT 2 - The Cat's Eye

FAQ

  • What is the ideal order to do the modules?

    Key Unit 1 - Getting you Started
    Project 1 - The Vintage Key
    Key Unit 2 - Switching on the Creative Side of your Brain
    Project 2 - The Cat's Eye
    Project 3 - The Sparrow

  • Does it matter if I do them in a different order?

    You will find it frustrating if you don't do them in order because the course has been designed so that each module builds on the ones before it.

    For instance you need to do Key Unit 1 before any of the projects because this is where I teach you the Dot&Grid Method and the basics of how to draw.

    The projects get more challenging as you progress, but they are achievable because your skills will build with each level. For instance the technique I teach you to draw the fur in The Cats Eye is then used when we do the fluffy feathers in The Sparrow, it is assumed knowledge.

    If you are unsure, it is easy to find out what you need to have done, just check "What modules do I need to have done before this" which is on the information page of each module.

  • How long does the course take?

    The course has no fixed time frame. Each course module has a different number of lessons, and the lessons vary in length, usually 5 to 20 minutes each. This is not allowing for the time when you are drawing.

    You can go as fast or slow as you wish, there are no deadlines. Most people take weeks or even months to complete all the Key Units and Projects.

    Relax, enjoy the journey!

  • Is the course suitable for kids?

    The course is great for older kids (teenagers) who want to learn how to draw detailed realism. It is not suitable for younger children.

  • Why are the modules different prices?

    The pricing is based on the type of content as well as the length of the module.

  • What devices can I watch it on?

    You can watch it on any device that receives the internet, eg your smartphone, ipad, laptop, whatever suits you. Personally I think it works better on a larger screen like an ipad/laptop because it makes it easier to see the detail.

  • What art materials will I need and are they expensive?

    The course has been designed to keep the cost of art materials at a reasonable level. The pictures are all drawn using graphite pencils, which are relatively inexpensive. You will need a sketchbook, some erasers and a few other bits and pieces. You will also need a set of grids, you can make these yourself from the template provided in the course or get them from me. They are not expensive but they are essential. Click the link below for full materials list and grids.

ART MATERIALS?

The art materials you will need for the course should be easy to find online or at your local art shop. Click here to view the materials list:

MATERIALS LIST