Nocturnal Majesty

My entry is a pastel pencil portrait of a Bengal eagle-owl (Bubo bengalensis), also known as an "Indian Eagle Owl." I always start with a high-quality image that captures the subject's character. I always begin with the animal's eyes to convey the personality and soul of the entire piece. I then apply my background and base colors onto a pastel board. I use a sharp blade and 200-grit sandpaper to ensure my pencils have a sharp point as I add layer after layer of feathers. As I build up my layers, I gently blend where needed using blending stumps or brushes. The dark background serves to accentuate the owl's form and color, isolating the subject and making it stand out dramatically. I wanted to capture the physical characteristics but also evoke the quiet dignity and sharp alertness inherent in the owl.