What a fun way to start the New Year than inviting back Pastimes’ favorite model, Ollie the Eurasian Eagle Owl for another Uninstructed Drawing Class!
My boss, Linda Wehrli, first discovered falconer Jonathan Gonzalez of Raptor Events back in January 2018 when Pastimes’ held its first Uninstructed Drawing Sesh with Ollie. It was such a blast, so we were thrilled to welcome Ollie back! On Sunday, January 24th, 2021 from 1:30 – 4 PM, students attended either safely in-studio or live-stream on Zoom.
Here’s the story.
At 12:30 PM, Jonathan brought Ollie in his carrying crate into the studio. When the Zoom cameras were set up and places for safe in-studio guests were ready, Jonathan brought out the star of the show, Ollie the Eurasian Eagle Owl, flapping his over 4-foot span wings. It was breathtaking.
As if on cue, Ollie regained his balance, perched on Jonathan’s arm and stayed there, modeling for over two hours. Jonathan reassured us that he knows how to position his body in order to comfortably hold Ollie for long periods of time.
At 1:30 PM, students assembled safely in-studio and on Zoom. Linda provided sketching tips throughout the session while she enjoyed sketching alongside her students. I was able to join on Zoom from my east coach perch.
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- Online Zoom
Jonathan fascinated us with educational stories about Ollie and his other birds of prey. Did you know, he also keeps reptiles and other cool critters available for birthday parties and other special events?
Ollie was fun but challenging to sketch as he turned his head and body often throughout the session. This allowed us to sketch his profile, portrait and 3/4 portrait. These photos were taken by me on Zoom.
In-Studio Sketches:
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- Naomi W.
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- Alexander V.
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- Linda Wehrli
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- Linda Wehrli
Online Zoom Sketches:
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- Michelle F.
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- Kat L.
Watching Ollie allow the in-studio students to pet him was adorable. Linda confirmed Ollie is a fluffy softy and didn’t seem to mind the affectionate attention one bit.
This was a perfect #SundayFunday for a chilly January afternoon. We will definitely have Ollie back. If you’re interested in participating in similar upcoming studio events, please consider subscribing to our email list to receive ample notice and invitations.
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Pastimes For a Lifetime Art and Piano School is located in Valley Glen, California. 818-766-0614. School is open Tuesday – Saturday year round, except major holidays.
You can learn more about Pastimes for a Lifetime’s Art Curriculum and founder/instructor Linda Wehrli by clicking the links or feel free to explore the website.
Ready to learn to draw or paint? Set up a free consultation with founder/instructor Linda Wehrli or book a Trial Art Class.
I’ve been committed to continuing lifelong learning and inspiring creative thinking through art and music since 1989. I’d love to meet you! You’re welcome to chat with me on Zoom or stop by the studio. Just shoot me an email at Linda@pastimesinc.com and I’ll be glad to set up a mutually convenient time.
What a fun class and certainly not your typical studio model!
I watched this presentation today on a very wet and cold morning, and it warmed me watching this amazing bird and the student’s renditions. Bravo! I will watch it many times as it brought a smile and warmth to a cold day.
What a wonderful way to make an art event so interesting.
Looks like a fun class! It’s interesting and fun to sketch live models – especially animals.
This event is Interesting …