New Animal Sketches

I've been working on a sketch series for a new Royal Brush project.  These are some of the finished images for an "Animal Safari Adventure" Sketch & Learn book.  I really like the idea of combining interesting animal facts with the sketches and outlines.  

I've been learning a lot by drawing a variety of animals.  I've discovered you don't have to include every bit of detail, but rather strike a balance of giving just enough information to "read" a feature.  For example, I did not include every spot on the cheetah, but rather gave the impression of spots.  And I don't even attempt to draw every hair, but just enough to look like fur.  Detail and sharpness around the eyes is especially importance as that is typically the focal point with animals.  

Palomino Colored Pencils

This is a quick study using the brand Palomino Colored Pencils.  I love the Palomino graphite pencils and just had to give the colored ones a try.  They only come in a total of 24 colors, but since I tend to use a limited palette, these are plenty.  I am pleased with the color intensity as well as the quality.  No crumbling, no breakage of the lead.  These are available for purchase at www.pencils.com

Artwork Featured in New Drawing Book

I have just received a copy of a new book called Drawing & Sketching Secrets that features several of my drawings.  The book was written by Donna Krizek.  It is an honor to have my artwork in the same book as other very talented artists such as Karen Hargett, Mike Sibley, Terry Miller, David Te, David Poxon to name just a few.   

Here is a direct link to Amazon to purchase this book (ISBN 978-1-60652-489-3).  

(Note: The cover image is incorrect on the link, but this is the same book.)