Artist in Focus: Rosa Bonheur – How to Paint Animals
Tutor: Rachel Moore, print artist
Welcome to Artist in Focus! A series of relaxed monthly art sessions with VVH print maker and artist, Rachel Moore. Rachel introduces a mix of well-known and lesser-known artists working in painting, printmaking, textiles and sculpture.
In each session, Rachel explores a different artist’s story and work before leading three short, creative exercises inspired by the artist’s style. These sessions are all about loosening up, building on your knowledge, experimenting with new techniques and filling your sketch book with fresh ideas. Rachel finishes each session with a focused activity to explore on your own, helping you develop your skills, and spark new ways of thinking about art.
Perfect for all levels, Artist in Focus is for anyone looking to give art a go, explore new techniques, expand their skills and knowledge, and fill their sketch book with fresh ideas.
February's Artist in Focus is Rosa Bonheur, the groundbreaking 19th-century painter best known for her highly detailed, large-scale animal paintings. We try out some accessible exercises inspired by her way of looking at animals, focusing on movement, shape, and texture rather than perfect realism.
This session is very much about having a go, not getting it “right.” Ideal for anyone curious about animal drawing, or just keen to try something a bit different.
Preparation
Prepare your materials and find a sturdy table or floor to work on.
Video time
30 minutes
- 2B or 4B Sketching pencil
- Watercolours – children’s paint palettes are fine for this
- Black fine line pen
- Paper or card (you can even use plain paper and card from the recycling bin.)
The idea isn’t to buy lots of new equipment but to use what you have!
