Will Elliston

Apprendre à peindre un cerf à l'aquarelle à l'aide de techniques simples, libres et expressives

I look forward to the day I will have enough skill under my belt to tackle any of your stag paintings. I’m Scottish, and love stags, as they are a somewhat poignant image of Scotland herself. I look forward to starting your ABSOLUTE beginner classes Will. I have watched a few and find your laid back teaching style reassuring. Maybe I am not a lost cause, or too old after all…

Thank you for your lovely comment! I look forward to seeing you progressive :D If you're completely new to watercolour then it is a good idea to start with absolute beginner classes, just to get the brush moving and get a rough idea of how it feels. But to be honest soon after that there's no better time to attempt the stag or any subject really. Whilst learning, there is absolutely nothing you can lose. Just the cost of the materials and the time spent doing it. But I'd actually say it's not lost but worth it. Just because a painting may not end up how you would like it or intended it does not mean it wasn't worth while. I find more value in the struggle of failed paintings, than a painting that goes smoothly, with nothing learnt. Also I've found in my work that if there's no element of risk the painting will look too safe and boring.
Although I completely understand the appeal of wanting to share projects of successful paintings, I feel very pleased when I see students leave their comfort zone and visibly see boldness in their work.

Thank you so much for these extremely encouraging words. To be honest, until you wrote these words it hadn’t even occurred to me to be brave, or bold. I do tend to be very timid and private in my hobbies (I sculpt), and it appears I have taken this trait to watercolour too. I shall try my best to be bold, and to post all the attempts I feel have, or at least nearly have, come close to my intention. You are an excellent tutor, and have a way of inspiring much confidence. As I lack that in spades, you’ll just have to trust me that I know what I’m talking about. I do hope you remain on the Skillshare platform. Thanks again.

It makes me so happy to read that! I'm so glad you feel encouraged. I really appreciate your kind words as well, they in turn encourage me! :-)

That looks realistic. Very good job

I have never enjoyed watching a painting come to life more. This is magnificent work. I was absolutely mesmerized watching this class.

Thank you so much Kandi for your lovely comment and your heartwarming review! I can't overemphasize the feeling of encouragement it get from reading such a nice review! It really makes me feel so reassured

Looks like he's coming out of the mist.

Wow beautifully rendered. I can feel his massiveness. His antlers are amazing.

Simply stunning! I love the texture you have achieved in this painting Will :)

Excellent work Will! Amazing detail. Love this work.

I love everything about this painting. The detail in the grass and soft background enhance the beauty of the stag.

Thank you for your kind words! I really appreciate it! :)

This is FABULOUS! I've always wanted to draw or paint a stag - now its here and in watercolors! I must try...

Thank you for your kind words! I really appreciate your support and enthusiasm. I hope to see your interpretation one day! :)

I'm absorbed in your class now... can't wait to try.. I don't remember rendering an animal in watercolours, so this will be a first! Thank you for making this class. Cheers (",)

That's so great to hear! If you find it a bit challenging my boxing hares class might be a good stepping stone. It's the same technique, but with an easier subject

Thank you for your suggestion, Will. i may just try both :) but, yes, starting with the boxing hares. You have many interesting classes! "Following" now.. Looking forward to learn and share! Be well, and thank you once again.

I truly love your style. It’s beautiful. Will work on this soon.

Thank you for your kind words! I really appreciate your support! :)

Beautiful. It looks like he'll just start moving.

Here are 2 other paintings you can use for reference, if you want to use the techniques demonstrated in my stag class and apply them to a more intermediate level painting...
<img srcset="https://static.skillshare.com/uploads/project/a0abf447105d3922ad04fc1145156fe7/3b131483.jpg 600w, https://static.skillshare.com/uploads/project/a0abf447105d3922ad04fc1145156fe7/3b131483.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 600px, 100vw" src="https://static.skillshare.com/uploads/project/a0abf447105d3922ad04fc1145156fe7/3b131483.jpg" loading="lazy" alt="To the next level... - image 1 - student project"><img srcset="https://static.skillshare.com/uploads/project/a0abf447105d3922ad04fc1145156fe7/30b09dee.jpg 600w, https://static.skillshare.com/uploads/project/a0abf447105d3922ad04fc1145156fe7/30b09dee.jpg 1000w" sizes="(max-width: 600px) 600px, 100vw" src="https://static.skillshare.com/uploads/project/a0abf447105d3922ad04fc1145156fe7/30b09dee.jpg" loading="lazy" alt="To the next level... - image 2 - student project">
Many Thanks!!

To the next level...

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