Drawing Birds with Bea Martin
Interested in drawing or sketching birds? Then this VARC workshop is for you!
Join artist and scientific illustrator Bea Martin for Drawing Birds, a unique course that blends artistic technique with a deep appreciation for the natural world. This class offers a welcoming, accessible introduction to bird illustration, with a focus on local bird species commonly found in British Columbia.
This course is a great fit for anyone who wants to build confidence in their drawing skills and learn how to capture the beauty of birds on paper. You'll explore techniques like pencil sketching, shading, and basic watercolour, while also developing a solid understanding of bird anatomy, posture, and proportions to bring your artwork to life.
No prior art experience is required—just curiosity and a love for birds! All materials are covered in detail, and participants will leave with basic tools, tips, and techniques they can continue to use in their own sketchbooks or nature journals.
Each session focuses on practical skills, including:
- Understanding bird shapes and silhouettes
- Observing feather patterns and field marks
- Creating depth with pencil shading and tonal values
- Introduction to watercolour washes and layering techniques
- Using simple tools to bring accuracy and life to your sketches
