Line and wash technique is where painting and drawing meet. The strength of the ink combines with the lightness and fluidity of the wash. It makes it a stunning technique for painting birds of prey - capturing their strength and grace.

In this section you will be introduced to line and wash, including mark making with dip pens and Indian ink and then you will discover how to use watercolour to put the air beneath the wings of a hovering kestrel. Don't worry if you either do not have dip pens, or you don't like using them. You can use fineliners (also know as Microns). You will need a variety of widths and you may have to work a little harder to get the variety of marks and character which dip pens have in spades.

In the, optional, final section, we will explore how adding text to our paintings can add a new level of meaning. I use some small printing blocks, but you can use your own handwriting (if it is neater than mine!), collage, letter punches etc.

By the end, you will have explored the beautiful mixed media combination of ink and watercolour and have the experience to tackle your own favourite birds.