Duck Stamp

Artist statement:

My goal was to create a scientifically realistic duck. To create this, I used assorted colored pencil, and a sheet of white paper as well as reference photos. I began by drawing a sketch of what I wanted the generall duck to look like and how I wanted the position to be. I decided on having its wings spread out like it was stretching, and showing off its feathers. There was not much I could have done if it were swimming or sitting, and I felt that doing this would be a fun practice and experience for me. I began by drawing the head and the rim of one side of the wing feathers. I gradually added on more and changed the size to fit the pattern. I began to have a lot of trouble when drawing the background because I didn't want it to ;ook too realistic and drown out the Nene, but I also wanted it to look natural. In the future, I plan to use chalk pastel and other materials to add graininess to the sand, and deeper shadows to the water.