These postcards were created to accompany Dunlin Press' latest book release The Migrant Waders. Each portrait was created on non-textured watercolour paper that absorbs water and ink beautifully and I believe best shows off the quality of the medium. The birds are first drawn as a light sketch, in pencil, loosely highlighting key areas. Then, layers of watercolour washes are applied, each heavily diluted, to gradually build up the colours – this provides interesting combinations of hues and texture. I then apply detail with a range of black felt tips – I love the way the different nibs allow me to work up the texture of each feather and capture the character of the plumage. Some pieces are heavily layered with black ink detail, others only need a light touch.