Artist Painter Brenda D. Johnson's Wildlife and Nature Inspired Art

Brenda's Blog and Studio Journal features new works in progress and general updates. You can also follow Brenda on Facebook (search Facebook: Brenda D. Johnson Wildlife Art. (NEW!)

Saturday, April 03, 2010

Flying Squirrel ~ On the Easel...........

Here's the update on the Barn Owl and Flying Squirrel painting.


I've spent a good portion of the day putting in tiny little hairs on the squirrel.


I hope to have this second layer completed so that it may dry enough to begin all over again next Tuesday.


In order for the hair to look real and thick, there will be many layers alternating color in this coat.


For those who have not seen one in person, their hair is much like a Chinchilla in feel and looks.


The last few nights, I have been able to hear them chirping in the woods behind the house.  They bred in Feb. and I'm sure the kids are out with Mom learning all the skills they will need to survive out there.


Fortunately, I have not heard the owls as of late.   The tree thinning pretty much frightened them off.
(Good for the squirrels, sad for me as I enjoy both)


Once he is looking real enough then back to the Barn Owl feathers....... Now that's a job!!!!!!  :- )

2 comments:

Lauren Ryan said...

Looks great! I love the detail in the branches.

You are very lucky to have seen one in person. I didn't know that we had flying squirrels in California, until now!

Good luck on the feathers, I know they can be quite a challenge!

~Lauren

Brenda D. Johnson said...

Hi Lauren, Thank you for your comments! Isn't that cool we have flying squirrels? They really are cute! I am sure they are coming in at night to help themselves to the bird food. I've surprised them walking outside when they are either getting water or seeds. They freeze for a moment then verbally express the displeasure of the intrusion before scampering up the trees.

It surprises me how few people (where I live) are unaware of the types of critters we do have living around us.. I think it's only because I am a wildlife artist that I'm acutely aware of them. :- )