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Colin Bradley School of Art

In my 30+ Years of Teaching Experience I have found that Pastel Pencils is the by far the easiest art medium to pick up and learn.

This Wild Animals Volume 1 includes 3 Subjects that you will learn to draw using Pastel Pencil Techniques and is designed for all levels. The 3 Subjects included are:

  • Lion
  • Elephant
  • Kingfisher

We provide you with an outline drawing for each subject so that you do not have to draw free hand. Trace this through to your paper or print it straight out using your printer.

Read more

In my 30+ Years of Teaching Experience I have found that Pastel Pencils is the by far the easiest art medium to pick up and learn.

This Wild Animals Volume 1 includes 3 Subjects that you will learn to draw using Pastel Pencil Techniques and is designed for all levels. The 3 Subjects included are:

  • Lion
  • Elephant
  • Kingfisher

We provide you with an outline drawing for each subject so that you do not have to draw free hand. Trace this through to your paper or print it straight out using your printer.

Colin walks you through step by step with Video instruction how to draw each stage. You'll learn how to build colours and create a piece of art you can be proud of.

Each subject contains a series of Video Lessons breaking down the subject into bitesize chunks that you can follow and return to with ease.

If you've love drawing and want to discover easy techniques to create stunning art that you can transfer to your own pictures then this course is for you

Enroll now

What's inside

Syllabus

Understand what you will be receiving in the course

In this video I explain what to expect from this Pastel Pencil course.

Learn the Materials Colin uses and how to use the Line Drawings
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In this video Colin shows you the materials he uses for his pastel pencil artwork.

  • Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils
  • Fabriano Ingres Pastel Paper
  • Double Ended Eraser (or other eraser)
  • Safety Razor Blades (for sharpening pencils)
  • Colour Shaper Blender (you do not need all the ones Colin uses, the grey chisel size 2 is a great all rounder)
  • Tracedown Graphite Paper (for tracing line drawings if not printing straight to paper).

All the materials you require can be purchased from our own art store or other retail outlets such as amazon.

In this course you will learn to draw a Lion. Colin recommends his pictures to be done in A4 size.

Pencils used in this picture (Colin uses Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils):

The 15 Pencils Colin uses are: 

  • 101 White
  • 103 Ivory
  • 270 Warm Grey I
  • 273 Warm Grey IV
  • 183 Light Yellow Ochre
  • 182 Brown Ochre
  • 189 Cinnamon
  • 186 Terracotta
  • 188 Sanguine
  • 283 Burnt Siena
  • 181 Payne's Grey
  • 199 Black
  • 172 Earth Green
  • 104 Light Yellow Glaze
  • 167 Permanent Green Olive.

In the resources you will find the Outline Drawing and Colin's Reference Picture. You can print the outline drawing straight to pastel paper via your printer or use tracedown carbon paper to trace the image onto your pastel paper. We have also included a Faber-Castell Colour Chart if you want to use another brand of pastel pencil and compare colours.

This is Part 2 of the Lion project. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to get in touch with us.

This is Part 3 of the Lion project. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to get in touch with us.

This is Part 4, the final lesson of the Lion project. 

We hope you enjoyed this course. If you want to share you work then please see the Summary > Sharing Your Work section.

If you have any questions please don't hesitate to get in touch with us.

In this course you will learn to draw an Elephant. Colin recommends his pictures to be done in A4 size.

Pencils used in this picture (Colin uses Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils):

The 8 Pencils Colin uses are: 

  • 101 White
  • 230 Cold Grey I
  • 233 Cold Grey IV
  • 189 Cinnamon
  • 181 Payne's Grey
  • 199 Black
  • 102 Cream
  • 170 May Green

In the resources you will find the Outline Drawing and Colin's Reference Picture. You can print the outline drawing straight to pastel paper via your printer or use tracedown carbon paper to trace the image onto your pastel paper. We have also included a Faber-Castell Colour Chart if you want to use another brand of pastel pencil and compare colours.

This subject was based on a reference photo by Sophie Gates Photography. Follow her on Instagram for fantastic wildlife reference photos.

This is Part 2 of the Elephant project. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to get in touch with us.

This is Part 3, the final lesson of the Elephant project. 

We hope you enjoyed this course. If you want to share you work then please see the Summary > Sharing Your Work section.

If you have any questions please don't hesitate to get in touch with us

In this course you will learn to draw a Kingfisher. Colin recommends his pictures to be done in A4 size.

Pencils used in this picture (Colin uses Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils):

The 13 Pencils Colin uses are: 

  • 101 White
  • 103 Ivory
  • 233 Cold Grey IV
  • 182 Brown Ochre
  • 113 Orange Glaze
  • 175 Dark Sepia
  • 192 Indian Red
  • 149 Bluish Turquoise
  • 157 Dark Indigo
  • 181 Payne’s Grey
  • 199 Black
  • 168 Earth Green Yellowish
  • 167 Permanent Green Olive

In the resources you will find the Outline Drawing and Colin's Reference Picture. You can print the outline drawing straight to pastel paper via your printer or use tracedown carbon paper to trace the image onto your pastel paper. We have also included a Faber-Castell Colour Chart if you want to use another brand of pastel pencil and compare colours.

This is Part 2 of the Kingfisher project. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to get in touch with us.

This is Part 3 of the Kingfisher project. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to get in touch with us.

This is Part 4, the final lesson of the Kingfisher project. 

We hope you enjoyed this course. If you want to share you work then please see the Summary > Sharing Your Work section.

If you have any questions please don't hesitate to get in touch with u

How to Share Your Artwork.

Please note: with our private Facebook group we have many people attempting to join so please message us on here if you are waiting approval and we will approve your request.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides outline drawings for each subject, removing the barrier of freehand drawing and making it accessible for beginners
Breaks down each subject into bite-sized video lessons, allowing learners to follow along easily and revisit specific stages as needed
Uses Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils, which are widely available and known for their quality, making it easier for students to acquire the necessary materials
Requires specific materials like Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils, Fabriano Ingres Pastel Paper, and a Colour Shaper Blender, which may not be readily available to all students
Includes a Faber-Castell Colour Chart, which is helpful if learners want to use another brand of pastel pencil and compare colors
Focuses on drawing specific animals (lion, elephant, kingfisher), which may not appeal to learners interested in other subjects or artistic styles

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Reviews summary

Drawing wild animals with pastel pencils

According to learners, this course is a fantastic introduction to pastel pencils, even for absolute beginners. Students find the step-by-step video instruction by Colin to be clear, easy to follow, and highly effective, leading to great results quickly. The inclusion of traceable outline drawings is frequently highlighted as a major help, allowing students to focus on technique rather than initial sketching. While materials are mentioned (specifically Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils), many feel the course provides excellent value and builds confidence in using this medium.
Instructor uses and recommends Faber-Castell.
"Colin uses Faber-Castell Pitt Pastel Pencils and recommends them."
"The course lists specific Faber-Castell pencil numbers needed for each project."
"Materials used are clearly stated, helpful for purchasing supplies."
"It helps knowing exactly which pencils Colin is using."
Students feel the course is worth the investment.
"Excellent value for money. Learned so much."
"Worth every penny for the skills and results achieved."
"Considering the quality of teaching and results, it's a great investment."
"Very affordable way to learn a new art form."
Traceable drawings simplify the starting process.
"Providing the outline drawings is a fantastic idea, allows you to get straight to the techniques."
"I appreciated not having to worry about the initial sketch and could just jump into coloring."
"The traceable outlines were very helpful, especially for someone new to drawing animals."
"It's great that the outlines are provided so you can focus on the pastel work."
Quickly helps students produce satisfying artwork.
"I have completed my first picture and am so pleased with the result. It has given me confidence."
"I am really pleased with the results I'm getting and feel confident to try more."
"Colin makes everything so easy and achievable. It really builds your confidence."
"The feeling of achievement after completing the first picture is amazing!"
Welcoming and effective for those new to pastels.
"This is the first time I've used pastel pencils and Colin has made it so easy to learn."
"An excellent course for beginners. I feel I can actually draw!"
"Colin is very good at explaining how to use pastel pencils which I haven't used before."
"I had never used pastel pencils before and Colin made it very easy to pick up and learn."
Clear, detailed video lessons are easy to follow.
"Colin's step by step process is brilliant, I find it very easy to follow and it gives great results quickly."
"The instructor is very clear and thorough. I love how each video is broken down into small steps."
"Each stage is broken down in a way that is easy to digest and follow, building confidence as you go."
"Very clear instructions that are easy to follow for great results!"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Draw Wild Animals using Pastel Pencils Volume 1 with these activities:
Practice Basic Shading Techniques
Reviewing basic shading techniques will help you better understand how to build colors and create depth in your pastel drawings.
Show steps
  • Gather reference images of simple objects.
  • Practice shading spheres, cubes, and cylinders.
  • Experiment with different pastel application methods.
Read 'Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain'
Reading this book will help you improve your observational skills and understand the fundamentals of drawing, which are crucial for pastel pencil work.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain'.
  • Work through the exercises in the book.
  • Apply the principles to your pastel drawings.
Color Mixing Exercises with Pastels
Practicing color mixing will allow you to create a wider range of colors and tones, enhancing your ability to accurately represent the subjects in the course.
Show steps
  • Create a color chart using your pastel pencils.
  • Experiment with layering different colors.
  • Practice blending colors to achieve desired hues.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Pastel Pencil Color Chart
Creating a color chart will help you become familiar with your pastel pencils and understand how different colors interact with each other.
Show steps
  • Gather your pastel pencils and paper.
  • Create a grid on your paper.
  • Fill each square with a different color.
  • Label each color with its name or number.
Explore 'Pastel Painting Techniques' by Alison Fitzgerald
This book will provide you with a deeper understanding of pastel techniques and help you develop your own artistic style.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Pastel Painting Techniques'.
  • Read the book and take notes on key concepts.
  • Experiment with the techniques described in the book.
Draw a Wild Animal from a Photo
Applying the techniques learned in the course to a new subject will solidify your understanding and improve your skills.
Show steps
  • Select a reference photo of a wild animal.
  • Create a sketch of the animal's basic form.
  • Apply pastel pencils to build up color and detail.
  • Refine your drawing and add finishing touches.
Create a Time-Lapse Video of Your Drawing Process
Creating a time-lapse video will help you analyze your drawing process and identify areas for improvement.
Show steps
  • Set up a camera to record your drawing process.
  • Draw a wild animal using pastel pencils.
  • Edit the footage into a time-lapse video.
  • Share your video online and get feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete Draw Wild Animals using Pastel Pencils Volume 1 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Wildlife Artist
A wildlife artist specializes in creating artwork that depicts animals in their natural habitats. This often involves a deep understanding of animal anatomy and behavior. The course "Draw Wild Animals using Pastel Pencils Volume 1" may provide practical skills in capturing the likeness and essence of various wild animals. The course focuses on pastel pencil techniques, which can be used to create highly detailed and realistic images. Learning to draw a Lion, Elephant, and Kingfisher step-by-step with video instruction can equip aspiring wildlife artists with the ability to build colors and create art that they can be proud of. The inclusion of outline drawings is also useful, helping artists focus on shading, texture, and capturing the unique characteristics of each animal. For someone looking to specialize in wildlife art, this course may be a good starting point.
Illustrator
An illustrator creates images for various media, such as books, magazines, and websites. This role often involves creating detailed and realistic depictions of animals. Taking the course "Draw Wild Animals using Pastel Pencils Volume 1" may help build a foundation in the specific techniques required to accurately portray wildlife. The lessons on drawing a Lion, Elephant, and Kingfisher using pastel pencils may be particularly relevant, as they provide hands-on experience with animal anatomy and form. The step-by-step video instruction can teach aspiring illustrators how to build colors and create stunning art pieces, skills that are directly transferable to professional illustration work. Furthermore, learning to use provided outline drawings can aid in understanding composition and proportion, essential elements for any illustrator.
Fine Artist
A fine artist creates artwork primarily for aesthetic purposes, often exhibiting in galleries or selling directly to collectors. The course "Draw Wild Animals using Pastel Pencils Volume 1" may help enhance their skills in drawing animals. The instructor's 30+ years of teaching experience may bring new insight to the fine artist. The course focuses on pastel pencils, a medium that the instructor considers easy to pick up. The step-by-step video instruction, breaking down each subject into bitesize chunks, and the inclusion of outline drawings and the Faber-Castell color chart provides additional resources and guidance. Moreover, the course's focus on drawing specific animals such as a Lion, Elephant, and Kingfisher offers clear subject matter.
Art teacher
An art teacher instructs students of all ages in various art techniques and concepts. The course "Draw Wild Animals using Pastel Pencils Volume 1" may be useful for an art teacher looking for new subject matter to teach or new techniques to incorporate into their curriculum. The course focuses on pastel pencils, a medium that the instructor considers easy to pick up. The step-by-step video instruction, breaking down each subject into bitesize chunks, models an effective teaching method that an art teacher could emulate. The inclusion of outline drawings and the Faber-Castell color chart provides additional resources and guidance. Moreover, the course's focus on drawing specific animals such as a Lion, Elephant, and Kingfisher offers clear lesson examples that could be adapted for classroom use.
Book Illustrator
A book illustrator creates images to accompany the text in books, often children's books. These illustrations frequently feature animals, requiring an understanding of animal anatomy and expression. The course "Draw Wild Animals using Pastel Pencils Volume 1" may provide practical experience in drawing animals in an engaging and accurate manner. The course's focus on drawing a Lion, Elephant, and Kingfisher using pastel pencil techniques may teach a book illustrator how to capture the unique characteristics of each animal. The step-by-step video instruction and inclusion of outline drawings can hone drawing skills and improve understanding of composition. This course may allow aspiring book illustrators to produce appealing and expressive animal illustrations.
Pet Portrait Artist
A pet portrait artist creates custom portraits of animals, often working with clients to capture the unique personality and characteristics of their pets. The course "Draw Wild Animals using Pastel Pencils Volume 1" may help develop the skills needed to create realistic and appealing animal portraits. The course focuses on pastel pencil techniques and teaches how to draw a lion, elephant and kingfisher, building familiarity with animal anatomy and proportions. The step-by-step instructions and video lessons may show artists how to build colors and textures, essential for capturing the likeness of an animal. The use of outline drawings helps in achieving accurate proportions and compositions, while the Faber-Castell color chart can aid in selecting the right colors to match an animal's fur or feathers. This course may equip aspiring pet portrait artists with the practical skills and knowledge to create heartfelt and personalized artworks.
Greeting Card Designer
A greeting card designer creates artwork and designs for greeting cards. This can involve drawing animals, especially for occasions like birthdays or holidays. The course "Draw Wild Animals using Pastel Pencils Volume 1" may provide practical skills in drawing animals in an appealing and artistic way. The course's focus on drawing a Lion, Elephant, and Kingfisher using pastel pencils may equip the greeting card designer with techniques to create eye-catching animal illustrations. The step-by-step video instruction and inclusion of outline drawings may help refine their drawing skills and understand composition. The Faber-Castell color chart may also be useful for selecting the right colors to create visually appealing designs. This course may give aspiring greeting card designers the artistic foundation to produce unique and marketable animal-themed cards.
Concept Artist
A concept artist creates visual representations of ideas for use in games, film, and other media. While not exclusively focused on animals, a concept artist may be asked to design creatures or characters based on real-world animals. The course "Draw Wild Animals using Pastel Pencils Volume 1" may provide valuable foundational skills in animal anatomy and artistic techniques. The course's focus on drawing a Lion, Elephant, and Kingfisher may help the concept artist learn about animal forms and how to render realistic textures. The step-by-step video instruction can teach effective drawing techniques using pastel pencils. The inclusion of outline drawings allows a concept artist to focus on the finer details of shading, color, and texture. The Faber-Castell color chart may also be useful for understanding color palettes and combinations.
Tattoo Artist
A tattoo artist creates designs and applies them to the skin using needles and ink. Animal tattoos are a popular choice, and precision and accuracy are essential. The course "Draw Wild Animals using Pastel Pencils Volume 1" may provide a foundation in animal anatomy and rendering techniques. The course focuses on drawing a Lion, Elephant, and Kingfisher using pastel pencils. It may help develop a tattoo artist's ability to create realistic and detailed animal designs. The step-by-step video instruction and inclusion of outline drawings may improve understanding of animal form. The Faber-Castell color chart can also aid in selecting the right colors for tattoo designs. While the medium is different, the foundational skills learned in this course can be adapted to tattooing.
Textile Designer
A textile designer creates patterns and designs for fabrics, which can include animal motifs. The course "Draw Wild Animals using Pastel Pencils Volume 1" may help develop the skills needed to create accurate and appealing animal illustrations for textile designs. The course's focus on drawing a Lion, Elephant, and Kingfisher using pastel pencil techniques may provide practical experience in rendering animal forms and textures. The step-by-step video instruction and inclusion of outline drawings may help refine the drawing skills needed to create repeating patterns and motifs. The Faber-Castell color chart can aid in selecting the right colors. Learning these skills may allow textile designers to produce unique and marketable fabrics.
Muralist
A muralist creates large-scale paintings on walls or other surfaces. Murals can often feature animals, either as part of a natural scene or as standalone subjects. The course "Draw Wild Animals using Pastel Pencils Volume 1" may provide valuable practice in rendering animals realistically. The course focuses on drawing a Lion, Elephant, and Kingfisher using pastel pencils. It may improve a muralist's ability to capture the essence of these animals on a larger scale. The step-by-step video instruction and inclusion of outline drawings may help understand animal anatomy and proportions. The Faber-Castell color chart may also be useful for selecting the right colors to create impactful and visually appealing murals. While the medium is different, the foundational skills learned in this course can be adapted to mural painting.
Animator
An animator creates moving images for films, television shows, and video games. While animation styles vary, a solid understanding of animal anatomy and movement can be valuable, especially when animating animal characters. The course "Draw Wild Animals using Pastel Pencils Volume 1" may provide a foundation in animal drawing. The course's focus on drawing a Lion, Elephant, and Kingfisher using pastel pencils may help the animator understand the basic forms and proportions of these animals. The step-by-step video instruction and inclusion of outline drawings may improve the animator's ability to capture the essence of each animal in their drawings. The Faber-Castell color chart may also be useful for understanding color palettes and combinations. This course may allow the animator to be creative and bring their imaginations to life by producing appealing animated videos.
Art Director
An art director is responsible for the visual style and images in various projects, such as magazines, advertising campaigns, or film sets. The course "Draw Wild Animals using Pastel Pencils Volume 1" may enable art directors to make informed decisions on creative projects involving animal imagery, such as knowing how to correctly represent colors and forms. Although an art director does not draw themselves, the focus on pastel pencil techniques will boost their knowledge on the medium. By learning to draw a Lion, Elephant, and Kingfisher step-by-step, they are better equipped to ensure quality when working with artists and designers. The Faber-Castell color chart may also be useful for understanding color schemes. The course may offer greater confidence to the art director.
Zoo Educator
A zoo educator teaches visitors about the animals in the zoo's collection, their habitats, and conservation efforts. While not directly related to art, knowledge of animal anatomy and characteristics can enhance their presentations and educational materials. The course "Draw Wild Animals using Pastel Pencils Volume 1" may offer a deeper understanding of the animals they talk about. By learning to draw a Lion, Elephant, and Kingfisher, they may gain insights into their unique physical features and adaptions. The use of pastel pencils may hone their observational skills, enabling them to notice subtle details that they can then share with zoo visitors. The video instruction and outline drawings may provide a structured approach to learning about animal anatomy and form. While not a primary skill for a zoo educator, artistic knowledge can enrich their teaching and make their presentations more engaging.
Exhibition Designer
An exhibition designer creates displays and environments for museums, galleries, and other exhibition spaces. The course "Draw Wild Animals using Pastel Pencils Volume 1" may help bring the animal kingdom to exhibitions. The course focuses on pastel pencils, which may add to the designer's knowledge of media and design. By learning to draw a Lion, Elephant, and Kingfisher step-by-step, the designer may be reminded of childhood joys that will enable them to conceptualize engaging displays. The inclusion of outline drawings may also spark some ideas. With the art skills learned, the designer will be more apt to add a creative touch to exhibition design.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Draw Wild Animals using Pastel Pencils Volume 1.
Provides a comprehensive guide to pastel painting techniques, covering topics such as color theory, composition, and layering. It valuable resource for intermediate to advanced artists looking to expand their knowledge of pastel painting. It offers practical advice and step-by-step demonstrations to help you improve your skills. It is more valuable as additional reading than as a current reference.
Teaches you how to draw what you actually see, rather than what you think you see. It classic guide to unlocking your artistic potential. It is helpful for beginners and experienced artists alike. It provides a strong foundation for representational drawing, which is essential for this course.

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