I was really concerned about painting this because the picture I started with was really dark, and I don't typically like to paint that dark. I tried to keep it dark on the bottom, but lighten as you look up.
After drawing this picture, I started by painting the grey wings and then the driftwood. Lots of coats of paint on the wood. Then the rocks and water behind. Finally, beak and legs/feet.
I like the way it turned out. It reminds me of my home. Lots of overcast days keeping the bright colors down and greying everything, and plenty of sea gulls everywhere.
