Animal Painting

Animals are popular in all parts of the world. Specific animals are common in some areas than others. It is worth noting that some animals have become instinct while some are at risk of extinction. Paintings will preserve the image of the animals for the future generation. Paintings hold a deeper meaning and connection to the images. Animal painting is also a way of appreciating creatures nature has given to the people.

Steps in Animal Paintings

Selecting the subject- this is the first step in animal painting. It involves the selection of the subject to be painted. It could be a pet, a wild animal, or any other animal in the world.

Painting the first layer of the colours- the first layer is less complicated. This creates a rich colour base and allows for adjustments in case of mistakes.

Adding the second layer- this layer is added once the first layer is dry. It is used to deepen the first layer while creating an opportunity to mould the shape.

Adding the texture – the texture gives an animal it’s true nature. It is certainly the most difficult step in painting an animal. The texture occurs in various forms such as fur, which is common in mammals or scales common in reptiles. Each animal has a unique texture that must be portrayed by the painting

Refining other details – the fine details ensures that the final painting is appealing to the eyes. Backgrounds form one of the most important parts of animal paintings. It presents the animal in its true form. In the case of domestic animals, the background could be the home compound while the wild animal can be presented in their habitats such as forests or deserts. The background could also be plain, depending on the painter’s preference. In addition, refining should bring out the fine details of the animals such as the eyes and shades.

Painting Fur

Painting fur is one of the most challenging steps in animal painting. Fur gives an animal a true texture, making the painting look real. Thus, this should be perfectly done by following the required steps. There are four steps in painting realistic fur:

Painting the base

Adding layers of the fur

Dividing the work into sections

Refining the work

Famous Animal painting Categories

There are three famous categories of animal paintings:

Animal paintings during ancient civilisation– these are paintings that were done by the ancient people. Some animals were accorded specific roles. While some were a source of food, others were regarded as sacred and painted in some areas such as worship places. Animals such as dinosaurs are believed to have become extinct and some people have attempted to paint their images.

Animal paintings in monotheistic Religions – some animals were associated with religions and God according to their distinct position in the religion. They acted as symbols of various aspects within the monotheistic religion.

Modern animal paintings – this category represents animal paintings done from the 17th Century when science was advancing to give clear roles of animals. In the current world, animal paintings are used for various purposes including animal rights. The paintings occur in symbolism as well as in descriptive characters that are treated with importance in the modern era.