In this class we’ll paint a calm winter owl and lean into the beauty of quiet light, soft edges, and clear, simple shapes. I’ll show you how a gentle background can make the bird glow, how saved paper and drops of water suggest snow and breath, and how small accents in the eyes and beak add character without heavy detail. Expect a limited, wintry palette, subtle temperature shifts, and a restful composition that leaves room for atmosphere.

What you’ll learn

Value design: think in clear silhouettes and linked value masses to anchor the pose.
Expressive washes: use soft, fresh washes to suggest plumage while keeping the background hushed and airy.
Texture, simply: let granulation and blooms read as feather texture; add crisp notes only where they matter most—the facial disc, beak, and those dark, reflective eyes.
Winter effects: use spatter for snow, saved whites and gentle lifting to create winter light.
Edges & mood: balance soft and firm edges and rely on restrained colour to build a quiet, convincing mood.

This approach favours suggestion over description, letting the paint choose some of the poetry. The ideas travel beautifully to other birds, winter woodland scenes, and any subject where calm atmosphere matters.

Grab your brushes and let’s bring this silent, snowy moment to life with fresh, confident washes!

Thank you so much for your interest in this class!

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Try this class to explore your creativity...

I’ve been painting for many years now, taken part in many exhibitions around the world and won awards from well respected organisations. As well as having my work feature in art magazines. After having success selling my originals and 1000s of prints around the world, I decided to start traveling with my brushes and paintings. My style is modern and attempts to grasp the essence of what I’m painting whilst allowing freedom and expression to come through. I simplify complicated subjects into easier shapes that encourages playfulness.

You'll Learn:

What materials and equipment to need to painting along
Basic technique to complete your first painting
How to avoid common mistakes
Choosing the right colours for your painting
How to blend colours and create textures for different effects
Making corrections and improvements
Finishing touches that make a big difference

When enrolled, I’ll include my complete ‘Watercolour Mixing Charts’. These are a huge aid for beginners and experts alike. They show what every colour on the palette looks like when mixed with each other. Indispensable when it comes to choosing which colour to mix.

Don’t forget to follow me on Skillshare. Click the “follow” button and you’ll be the first to know as soon as I launch a new course or have a big announcement to share with my students.

Additional Resources:

Here are the art supplies I recommend
Follow me on Instagram
Check out my website

Music by Audionautix.com

Robin Cunningham

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