Premier Graphics
& Animation
Work with us
Menu
Studio
OverviewServicesCapabilitiesThe Collection
Institute
OverviewProgrammesCourse libraryHow we teachCareersGuidesFor universities
Journal About Contact Work with us
Fine Arts · MS elective · 3 credit hours · 16 sessions

Painting Wildlife & Animals

Capturing the spirit of a living creature requires more than anatomical correctness; it requires empathy and observation. This course teaches the techniques needed to paint fur, feathers, scales, and the glint in an animal’s eye. Students will study comparative anatomy to understand movement and structure, while mastering brushwork that mimics the textures of the natural world.

§ 01 By the end you can
  1. Master the rendering of textures: Fur (Short/Long), Feathers, and Scales
  2. Understand Comparative Anatomy: Skeletal and muscular structures of mammals/birds
  3. Capture the "Spark of Life": Painting convincing eyes and wet noses
  4. Execute dynamic compositions that imply movement or behavior
  5. Utilize glazing techniques to create depth and luminosity in animal coats
§ 02 Sixteen sessions

The whole semester.

  1. 01Comparative Anatomy: The Skeleton beneath
  2. 02Gesture Drawing: Capturing Movement
  3. 03The Eye: The Window to the Soul
  4. 04Fur I: Short & Sleek (Horse/Dog)
  5. 05Fur II: Long & Texture (Bear/Cat)
  6. 06Color Mixing for Natural Coats
  7. 07The Nose & Mouth: Wet Textures
  8. 08 · MidtermMidterm Examination
  9. 09Avian Art: Painting Feathers & Wings
  10. 10Reptiles: Scales & Shine
  11. 11Backgrounds: Habitat vs. Abstract
  12. 12Water Animals: Wet Skin & Reflection
  13. 13Light & Shadow on Form
  14. 14Wildlife in Action: The Hunt/Flight
  15. 15Ethics of Reference Photography
  16. 16Final Project: The Large Scale Wildlife Portrait

Midterm around session 8. Final project briefed at session 8 or 9 and developed in stages until the juries.

§ 03 Final project

Final Project: The Large Scale Wildlife Portrait

How it’s judged

Recommended reading
  1. The Art of Animal Drawing: Construction, Action Analysis, Caricature by Ken Hultgren
  2. Painting Wildlife Textures Step by Step by Rod Lawrence
  3. Animal Anatomy for Artists by Eliot Goldfinger
  4. The Weatherly Guide to Drawing Animals by Joe Weatherly
  5. Wildlife Painting: Techniques of Modern Masters
More in Fine Arts
Abstract & Impressionist PaintingThis course explores Impressionist and Abstract painting traditions through color, gesture, texture, light, and expressive mark-making.
Advanced Cloth Figure PaintingDrawing the nude is a challenge; dressing it is an art form. This advanced course focuses on the complex relationship between the human form and drapery.
Advanced Figure DrawingThis course advances observational and anatomical figure drawing skills. Students study complex poses, skeletal and muscular structure, dynamic movement, foreshortening, expressive mark-making, and refined rendering to develop mastery in depicting the human form.
Advanced Landscape PaintingThe landscape is a challenge of light, atmosphere, and vastness. This advanced course moves beyond the "Blue Sky, Green Grass" formula.
Advanced MaterialsIn the world of 3D, a model is only as good as its surface. This course explores "Look Development" (LookDev) and the creation of photorealistic digital materials.
Advanced Mold Making TechniquesThis technical course is the bridge between a unique sculpture and mass production. Students will explore the science of replication, learning to create complex molds for sculpture, product design, and prototyping.