"Woody Woodpecker" Watercolour on acid free paper fixed on board and varnished then waxed
When walking by the River Stour in the early morning just as the mist is clearing off the river, you can hear the woodpecker as he hunts for insects in the trees. The sound seems to fill the morning air like a drum. When I hear or see him I know I am in an English woodland.
The Great Spotted Woodpeckers have lovely white cheeks with black lines underneath and a black cap. Males can be identified by a bright red patch on the back of their necks.
They have a delicate pale breast with black upper parts, and a bright red rump. Their wings are dark with white spots. Great Spotted Woodpeckers are not as large as you might imagine, being slightly smaller than a blackbird.
I couldn't resist painting the one above which was sold from my portfolio displayed at the Kingfisher Barn, Dorset Wildlife Trust.
Method: I fix the watercolour painting onto a wooden frame, then when it is dry I varnish and wax it. This seems to give the watercolour more depth and a fragrant smell of beeswax.
Very best wishes and happy painting.
Chris x
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