Pigeons at CJs

Posted by Stephen Quirke on December 2, 2010 under Art, Bird, en plein air, watercolor, watercolour, waterfall | 6 Comments to Read

This morning I sat outside the at CJ’s for a cup of rooibos.  My usual bible study group had slept in so I had time to reflect.  And to paint!  The fountain is in the square and last time I was there I watched the pigeons coming and going.

this painting is on Arches cold pressed and is 280 X 190 mm.

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Owl

Posted by Stephen on February 18, 2010 under Art, Bird, Drawing, painting, watercolor, watercolour | 9 Comments to Read

On Tuesday evening this guy sat in the tree in our driveway.   I took some photos and then my daughter climbed on the car and took a few more before he flew away.   Here is how I have started:

here is the next wash

This is a Cape Eagle Owl, a large capable raptor and like all owls dead quiet in flight.

I noticed as I painted this watercolour that they have long needle sharp claws and incredibly powerful talons.

And here is the final – I see the paint is still wet so I may redo this later.

Yesterday I was working in my studio to complete a document for a client.  The chicks were scratching in the bush outside the door.  I heard a shriek and looking up saw the owl taking off under the tree.  I ran out to be treated to the heart-rending sight of the owl flying off with Pikachoo in its talons.  Over Debbie’s wall, then back over the open plot behind our house.   Within two seconds she was gone.  So… this is processing.