Section 1: Supplies For Drawing A Hyena
To create a realistic, lifelike scene depicting a hyena, you will need some supplies to get started. First, a good quality sketchpad or drawing paper, sharpened pencils and erasers. You will also need a selection of vivid colored pencils, markers, and paints. Next, select charcoal or pastel sticks to add shading or texture to your finished drawing. Finally, employ a few tools to help sharpen your skill and accuracy, such as a protractor, ruler, and a fine tip eraser.
To draw a realistic looking hyena, first use a soft tissue or chamois cloth to smudge and blend pencil lines, shadows and highlight your drawing. Use the rulers to keep your lines smooth and accurate. Pencils typically give a softer, more subtle effect than markers, so if you’re aiming for a realistic look, pencils will be your best choice. Select a dark color for the hyena’s coat, such as black or dark gray, and use lighter shades for the fur on the tip of the muzzle and other areas.
Next, use layers of charcoal or pastels to add definition. Make sure to use a light touch when doing this as too much color can easily spoil the look of your creation. You will also need to use a fine-tipped eraser to create highlights, shading, and greater realism. Finally, use a ruling pen or fine tip felt pen to add the finishing touches to your creation and make sure the lines are precise.
Section 2: Understanding Hyena Anatomy
When creating a realistic drawing of a hyena, it is important to understand the anatomy of the animal as well as the structure of its fur and features. Start by studying a reference picture. Observe the location of the eyes, nose and mouth and how their proportions vary from one another. Make a note of the size and shape of the ears and how they are related to the overall face shape of the hyena.
Next, take a look at the shape and size of the body. Notice how its shape changes when the animal is in motion, and the different points where its torso contracts and relaxes. If you are drawing a female, take note of her teats, and if you are drawing a male, pay attention to his muscular features. Pay special attention to its tail and the way the fur is arranged on its body.
Lastly, study the coloring of the hyena’s fur. Note the combination of colors that are used to create its unique pattern. Choose colors that are vivid but not overly bright as this will help to give your drawing a more realistic look. Keep in mind that a hyena’s fur is made up of assorted colors, including shades of brown, tan, black, and white.
Section 3: Refining Your Drawing
Once you have a basic outline of the hyena’s body, begin adding more details. Start by refining the outline, increasing or decreasing the amount of fur in some areas. Focus on the areas that have the greatest amount of detail, such as the face and feet, making sure to capture the exact shape of the fur. Use a ruler to draw the straight lines, and then use short and wavy lines to create texture and depth. For example, draw a few short lines to the side of the eyes, or a few curved lines around the mouth.
Next, move on to the colors and shading. Decide which colors you want to use and apply them with lighter strokes. Use the colors that are most representative of the hyena’s fur to get the best results. Layer the colors on top of one another and use the eraser to create highlights and shadows. Utilize the charcoal sticks to blend the colors together, and create a softer and more lifelike look. Finally, use the ruler to add the last details and ensure that all of the lines are crisp and precise.
Section 4: Finishing Touches For Your Hyena Drawing
Once the colors and shading have been applied, it is time to add the finishing touches to your hyena drawing. If you have included a background in your drawing, add colors and shadows to make it look more realistic. Use the same colors you have used in the hyena’s fur to make it look cohesive and create a seamless look. If you wish to add some extra details to make the drawing look more vivid, feel free to do so.
Additionally, feel free to add some accessories to the drawing and make it look more interesting. A sprig of grass next to the head, a small stone around the neck, or a flower on the foot are some great ideas. Finally, use a fixative to keep your drawing from smudging and fading. This will also make sure that your masterpiece looks as good for years to come.
