Free Bird

The alla prima technique lends Iryna Khort a sense of unbridled expression when capturing her wildlife subjects

- Iryna Khort

Just In Time, oil, 8 x 8" (20 x 20 cm)

This European robin was painted with only a palette knife. I love the way it turned out, with thick strokes, lightness, and freedom. It has a decorativeness, and at the same time the body of the bird has a sense of volume.

Delicate, oil, 6 x 6" (15 x 15 cm)

I love hares and watch them almost every walk near my home. They take a significant place as an object in my art. I wanted to convey their fragility, cuteness and mobility in this sketchy painting.

I used to call myself an animal artist, and at the same time, I devote a lot of my creative passion to painting birds. For me, birds represent freedom and independence, lightness and swiftness. They inhabit the most amazing places on our planet, and they are probably one of the most adapted among wild animals for close coexistence with people. I also enjoy painting mammals, whether it be a rabbit or a lion.

I use the alla prima technique, which allows me to convey lightness and expression in my work. I paint wet-on-wet and solve all the tasks in one session. The wet technique requires a combination of good color mixing skills and the ability to elaborate and follow a precise plan. For instance, it is necessary to think over the tonality and placement of the main color spots in advance to achieve the desired impression.

I always start my work by looking for a suitable reference. When choosing a reference, the main element I pay attention to is a clear designation of light and shadow, as such works turn out to be the most picturesque paintings in the end. I do not have the goal of copying the image as accurately as possible, because the photo does not convey the richness and variety of shades that can be seen in real life. By the way, this is why I like watching birds in the wild, observing their habits, and the play of light on their plumage.