{"id":36515,"date":"2020-12-19T15:17:11","date_gmt":"2020-12-19T15:17:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/?page_id=36515"},"modified":"2026-04-07T13:18:17","modified_gmt":"2026-04-07T13:18:17","slug":"green-bird-with-watercolor-pencils","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/green-bird-with-watercolor-pencils","title":{"rendered":"Green Bird with Watercolor Pencils"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"coursetitlecontainer\">\n<div class=\"coursetitle\">\n<h1>Green Bird with Watercolor Pencils<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"coursetitledes\"><span>CLASS<\/span><i class=\"far fa-chart-bar\" style=\"margin-left:10px; margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>Beginner<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/p>\n<div class=\"insertbackground\">\n<div class=\"removep\">\n<div class=\"videoflexwrapper\">\n<div class=\"videotop\">\n  <iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/649053334?h=df69164336\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe><\/p>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"sidebartop\">\n<div class=\"vertalign\">\n<div class=\"logoimage\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/logosmall75.png\"><\/div>\n<p>\n    <div class=\"sidebarcarddescriptiondark\">\n<span>JOIN THE VIRTUAL INSTRUCTOR<\/span><br>\n    Get ALL of our courses, ebooks, live lessons, critiques, lesson plans and more today.\n<\/div>\n    <\/p>\n<div class=\"sidebarbuttonholder\"><a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"sidebuttonsmem\">START FREE TRIAL<\/div>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<div class=\"separator\" style=\"margin-top:1em;\">or<\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/register-ll-green-bird\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"sidebuttons\">BUY CLASS $57<\/div>\n<p><\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"courseperkscontainer\">\n<div class=\"courseperks\"><span>This lesson series features:<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"courseperks\"><i class=\"far fa-clock\" style=\"margin-right:10px;\"><\/I>7 Hours of Instruction<\/div>\n<div class=\"courseperks\"><i class=\"fas fa-film\" style=\"margin-right:10px;\"><\/I>7 Videos<\/div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"><\/div>\n<p>\n\n<div class=\"contentfix\">\n<div class=\"favorites\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"tabs\">\n<p> <input name=\"tabs\" type=\"radio\" id=\"tab-1\" class=\"input\"\/><br \/>\n  <label for=\"tab-1\" class=\"label\">Lessons <i class=\"fas fa-angle-down\" style=\"margin-left:2px;\"><\/i><\/label><\/p>\n<div class=\"panel\">\n<h2>Lessons<\/h2>\n\n<\/p>\n<p><div class=\"curriculumcontainer\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\" class=\"curriculum\"><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>Lesson 1: (1:03:18)<\/a><br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\" class=\"curriculum\"><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>Lesson 2: (1:09:02)<\/a><br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\" class=\"curriculum\"><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>Lesson 3: (1:08:04)<\/a><br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\" class=\"curriculum\"><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>Lesson 4: (1:06:30)<\/a><br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\" class=\"curriculum\"><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>Lesson 5: (1:05:14)<\/a><br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\" class=\"curriculum\"><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>Lesson 6: (1:02:24)<\/a><br \/>\n<a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\" class=\"curriculum\"><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>Lesson 6: (1:02:48)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/div>\n<p><input name=\"tabs\" type=\"radio\" id=\"tab-2\" checked=\"checked\" class=\"input\"\/><br \/>\n  <label for=\"tab-2\" class=\"label\">About <i class=\"fas fa-angle-down\" style=\"margin-left:2px;\"><\/i><\/label><\/p>\n<div class=\"panel\">\n<h2>About This Lesson Series...<\/h2>\n<p>\nThe <em>Green Bird with Watercolor Pencils<\/em> lesson series is an engaging, step-by-step exploration of using watercolor pencils to create a vivid and expressive image of a green bird set against a rich red background. Throughout this series of lessons, you\u2019ll learn how to combine the precision of colored pencil drawing with the painterly effects of watercolor, taking advantage of the unique qualities of this versatile medium. From initial observation to refined detail work, the lessons guide you through a complete creative process that builds confidence, control, and artistic understanding.\n<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/02\/watercolor-pencils-bird-1000.jpg\" alt=\"watercolor pencil drawing of a bird\"><\/p>\n<h2>Developing Observational Skills<\/h2>\n<p>\nThe series begins by emphasizing careful observation of the subject. Before any color is applied, students learn how to study the bird\u2019s proportions, feather structure, posture, and distinctive features. Observation is a foundational skill that enhances accuracy and helps you translate what you see into a compelling and convincing drawing. By identifying major shapes and value relationships at the outset, you establish a roadmap that supports all stages of the image development.\n<\/p>\n<h2>Creating a Strong Initial Sketch<\/h2>\n<p>\nOnce observation is established, the next step in the series is creating a structured pencil sketch. Using light and controlled lines, you\u2019ll map out the bird\u2019s shape and placement on the paper. This foundational drawing ensures that proportions are accurate and provides a framework for all watercolor pencil applications. This early planning stage also helps establish the composition\u2019s balance, ensuring that the bird interacts harmoniously with the red background space.\n<\/p>\n<h2>Layering Watercolor Pencil Color<\/h2>\n<p>\nWith the sketch in place, the lesson series transitions into layering color with watercolor pencils. This medium shines because it allows you to combine dry pencil control with the fluidity of watercolor washes. Initially, lighter hues are laid down to establish the base green tones of the bird\u2019s feathers and the bold red background. Students learn how to build color intensity gradually, using both dry strokes and water activation to develop smooth transitions and vibrant hues.\n<\/p>\n<h2>Using Water for Painterly Effects<\/h2>\n<p>\nA defining aspect of the series is learning how to activate watercolor pencil marks with water. You\u2019ll discover how a damp brush can transform dry pigments into soft, painterly washes, allowing colors to blend and flow naturally. This technique is especially helpful for suggesting the softness of feathers and creating a unified red background that supports the visual impact of the green bird. The instructor also demonstrates how to control water and pigment so that key details remain sharp.\n<\/p>\n<h2>Refining Details and Texture<\/h2>\n<p>\nAs your painting progresses, the lesson series moves into refining the bird\u2019s features and developing texture. Students learn how to add subtle feather patterns, enhance the bird\u2019s eye and beak, and introduce nuanced value changes that bring depth and dimension to the image. The background is also refined to maintain richness without distracting from the subject, creating a striking visual contrast between red and green.\n<\/p>\n<h2>Balancing Light and Shadow<\/h2>\n<p>\nThroughout the series, careful attention is given to light and shadow. You\u2019ll learn how to define the bird\u2019s volume by observing how light falls across forms and how to use watercolor pencil techniques to model form. Students are encouraged to think in terms of value as well as color, ensuring that the bird feels three-dimensional and grounded within the composition.\n<\/p>\n<h2>Bringing It All Together<\/h2>\n<p>\nBy the end of the <em>Green Bird with Watercolor Pencils<\/em> series, you\u2019ll have completed a dynamic and expressive image that showcases both technical skill and artistic expression. This series not only teaches practical techniques for watercolor pencil work but also fosters a deeper understanding of observation, layering, texture, and color harmony. Whether you\u2019re a beginning artist or looking to expand your skills, these lessons offer a rich and rewarding creative experience.\n<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<p>  <input name=\"tabs\" type=\"radio\" id=\"tab-3\" class=\"input\"\/><br \/>\n  <label for=\"tab-3\" class=\"label\">Resources <i class=\"fas fa-angle-down\" style=\"margin-left:2px;\"><\/i><\/label><\/p>\n<div class=\"panel\">\n<h2>Resources for this Lesson...<\/h2>\n<p><i class=\"fas fa-exclamation-triangle\" style=\"margin-right:10px;\"><\/I>Distributing any content downloaded from this site is strictly prohibited and against the terms and conditions of use.<\/p>\n\n<\/p>\n<h4>References<\/h4>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:10px;\"><\/I>Photo Reference<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><i class=\"fas fa-lock\" style=\"margin-right:10px;\"><\/I>Finished Result<\/a><\/p>\n<p><\/div>\n<p><input name=\"tabs\" type=\"radio\" id=\"tab-4\" class=\"input\"\/><br \/>\n  <label for=\"tab-4\" class=\"label\">Materials <i class=\"fas fa-angle-down\" style=\"margin-left:10px;\"><\/i><\/label><\/p>\n<div class=\"panel\">\n<h2>Here's what you'll need...<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Watercolor Paints<\/li>\n<li>Assorted Nylon Brushes<\/li>\n<li>Watercolor Pencils<\/li>\n<li>Masking Tape<\/li>\n<li>Masking Fluid<\/li>\n<li>Watercolor Paper<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"sidebarbottom\">\n<div class=\"relatedcourse\">Your Instructor<\/div>\n<div class=\"instructor\">\n<div class=\"instructorimage\">\n<div class=\"instructorpic\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/images\/mattauthor.jpg\" alt=\"Matt Fussell - Instructor\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"instructorname\">Matt Fussell<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"instructordes\">\n<p>Founder of The Virtual Instructor, artist and teacher. Matt makes learning art easy to understand and enjoyable.<\/p>\n<p><div style=\"padding-top:10px;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/blog\/author\/admin\">Learn more about Matt<\/a><\/div>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relatedcoursescontainer\">\n<div class=\"relatedcourse\">Related Courses and Classes<\/div>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/orangutan-with-watercolor-pencils\" class=\"sidebarbottom-curriculum\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"leftlean\"><i class=\"far fa-play-circle\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>Orangutan with Watercolor Pencils<\/div>\n<div class=\"rightlean\" style=\"background-image: url('https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Orangutan-Watercolor-Pencils-SQ.jpg');\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"><\/div>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/old-barn-with-watercolor\" class=\"sidebarbottom-curriculum\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"leftlean\"><i class=\"far fa-play-circle\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>Old Barn with Watercolor<\/div>\n<div class=\"rightlean\" style=\"background-image: url('https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Watercolor-Barn-sq.jpg');\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"><\/div>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/the-watercolor-workshop\" class=\"sidebarbottom-curriculum\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"leftlean\"><i class=\"far fa-play-circle\" style=\"margin-right:5px;\"><\/i>The Watercolor Workshop<\/div>\n<div class=\"rightlean\" style=\"background-image: url('https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/Watercolor-Workshop-Course.jpg');\"><\/div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"><\/div>\n<p><\/a>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"clear:both;\"><\/div>\n<p><script>\nfunction myFunction(x) {\n  if (x.matches) { \/\/ If media query matches\n    radiobtn = document.getElementById(\"tab-1\");\nradiobtn.checked = 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Series&#8230; The Green Bird with Watercolor Pencils lesson series is an engaging, step-by-step exploration of using watercolor pencils to create a vivid and expressive image of a green bird set against a rich red background. Throughout this series of lessons, you\u2019ll learn how [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","template":"paget-iframe.php","meta":{"footnotes":""},"tags":[],"class_list":["post-36515","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36515","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=36515"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36515\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":46488,"href":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/36515\/revisions\/46488"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=36515"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thevirtualinstructor.com\/members\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=36515"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}