Illustration – H is for …

digital painting, 17 Comments
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Hatching a Hoopoe.

The Hoopoe Bird is the guest of honor for the letter H. Hoopoes have great hair! I was listening to a book that takes place in Botswana and the Hoopoe played a role – as it apparently has in literature since around the 3rd millennium BCE. I could not resist the interesting, humble Hoopoe.

“Hatching the Hoopoe” is the crosshatching I used to illustrate the feathers. It happened by accident, or sheer inspiration, (I think these are synonymous) and I plan to develop this technique more. Previously, I would “hatch” backwards by scratching into the wash.

Sketch lines and washes
“Hatching”or little crossing strokes in white and crossing more short lines where I want more light.
Added an additional layer of hatching with a darker charcoal colour.

Crosshatching is very relaxing, like doodling or meditating, and the effects are surprising!

Lovely facts about the Hoopoe:

Hoopoes are monogamous. Once they find a mate, they often form long-term pair bonds and stay together throughout the breeding season.

Nesting. Hoopoes are cavity-nesting birds, creating their nests in natural or artificial holes, crevices, or cavities. The female takes the lead (naturally) in building the nest, while the male might bring materials or assist in the process. “Not those sticks Harry, the lighter ones with the curly bits…it’ll be so lovely…and a bit of moss as well.”

Parenting. Both parents take part in the incubation and care of the chicks. They take turns feeding the chicks and keeping them warm. “hrrmmmph… it’s your turn.”

Fledging and Independence: Once the chicks are capable of flight, the parents continue to care for them until they can fend for themselves (…or move into a one bedroom nest to nudge them along).

Migratory & Solitary behavior: Hoopoes are migratory birds in many regions, and during their journeys, they may form loose flocks. However, outside of the breeding season, they are usually not highly social birds. They may often be seen alone or in pairs. “I can relate…”

Hoopoe birds are fascinating creatures. With each letter of this Beautiful World Alphabet, I get to discover not only more of nature, but more of the illustrating process as well.

Hope this was fun,

Thank you!

  1. And thank you kind lady, this is indeed so beautifully done. I think you have been given a message from above in your gift to art, for yourself and others. Well done, and your little friend above is saying hello beautifully 😀❤️🙏

    Liked by 3 people

    Reply

    1. Hi Mark and thank YOU! Your comments are always so very supportive and uplifting, that is truly a gift. So happy you liked the Hoopoe saying hello! (three H’s there, :)).

      Liked by 2 people

    1. Hi Cathy! That’s so great, I wonder what it would be like to look out our windows and see this little bird as we often see sparrows and blackbirds…. Such a happy site for sure! Thanks again 🌷😊☮️❤️

      Liked by 1 person

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