Whiskers to Wildlife Academy
Are you ready to create art that you’re proud to share? Then you are in the right place.
In the Whiskers to Wildlife Academy, I help beginners build their confidence and skills so they can draw stunning, realistic animals using pastel pencils and more.
With step-by-step guidance, in-depth tutorials, and personalised feedback, you'll gain the solid foundations you need to bring your artwork to life. Whether you’re holding a pencil for the very first time or already exploring your artistic journey, there’s a place for you here.
Join our supportive, encouraging community where you can grow at your own pace and celebrate your progress.
I can’t wait to welcome you inside! 🐾
Hi I'm Linda, a 50-something mother of two, now living my dream by helping people just like you create stunning portraits of pets, wildlife, and more.
For years, I believed I couldn’t draw. I thought creativity was for other people, not me. Then, one day, I stepped into a local gallery and saw some incredible artwork. I just loved how they looked & I knew I had to give it a try. With a little Christmas pastel kit from my kids, I began my journey, learning everything I could about drawing with Pastel Pencils.
A year later, I had achieved something I never thought possible, I won first place at that very same gallery with my portrait of a Baby Bonobo! It was a defining moment. I realised if I could do this, anyone could.
I understand how daunting it can feel to start something new, especially if you’ve never picked up a pencil before.
That’s why I created the Whiskers to Wildlife Academy: I want to help you create beautiful portraits of pets, wildlife, and more, boost your confidence and fulfil your artistic goals with kindness, patience & plenty of support.
Let’s make magic together! 🐾
Original Reference Image by Natasha Jeffries - Wildlife Reference Photos for Artists
Your Creative Journey Starts Here
If you’ve ever dreamed of drawing beautiful animal portraits but felt unsure where to start, you’re not alone, and that’s exactly why the Whiskers to Wildlife Academy was created.
This is a place where absolute beginners are warmly welcomed, where every step of your journey is met with encouragement, and where you’ll discover that you really can create art you’re proud of.
No experience? No problem. I'm here to guide you, support you, and celebrate your progress every step of the way.
Gain Confidence
I'll guide you through the basics, ensuring you feel confident in your abilities. My beginner-friendly approach demystifies the process, making it accessible and enjoyable.
Master Techniques
Learn the secrets to drawing realistic fur, feathers, and textures with pastels. From blending to layering, my tutorials break down complex techniques into simple, manageable steps.
Achieve Your Goals
Whether it's drawing your pets, stunning wildlife or just exploring your creative side, I'm here to support you. My success path is designed to help you reach your artistic goals, providing you with a roadmap for growth and achievement.
Create Stunning Art
Transform your love for animals into beautiful portraits that you can proudly display or even sell. My tutorials range from adorable pets to majestic wildlife, catering to all interests and skill levels.
What's Included ?
Here's what your membership to the Whiskers to Wildlife Academy gives you.
First Steps Course: As a member you’ll gain exclusive access to my transformative course, First Steps which is designed to build your confidence and skills. This course will guide you through the essentials, teaching you the techniques and materials you need to create realistic artwork with ease. Once you’ve mastered the basics, we will then focus on drawing stunning animal features like eyes, noses, and fur with incredible detail. This course is perfect for absolute beginners and will set you up for success on your pastel pencil journey.
New Monthly Tutorials: Every month you'll receive at least two brand-new tutorials—one in pastels and one in graphite. These lessons vary from detailed, full portraits to shorter sessions focused on specific areas like animal eyes, fur textures, or smaller subjects. Occasionally, we'll even explore something fresh and different, like flowers or backgrounds. These step-by-step tutorials will cover everything from basic techniques to advanced methods. Every tutorial is designed to be easy to follow & is recorded in real time, nothing is sped up or skipped, so you see every step from start to finish & because they are on demand you can progress at your own pace.
Regular Members 'Drawing Room' Sessions : Our live Drawing Room Sessions are where we get the chance to meet online and draw along together. These sessions are perfect for asking questions & getting real-time help & depending on the subjects we draw, the time taken to complete them will vary. With members from around the globe I am very aware of our time differences so if you can't attend these live sessions, don't worry, all of them will be recorded for you so you can watch them at a time that suits you.
Access to all of my Previous Tutorials & Any Live Sessions: As a member you will have access to all of my previous tutorials & any live sessions. With a fantastic search function everything within the Academy is easy to find so you can choose your next project with ease.
A Supportive Community: When you join our vibrant community of passionate artists your questions are always welcome! Whether you're seeking advice on techniques, struggling with a specific project, or looking for feedback on your latest drawing, we are always there to help. Together, we celebrate growth, learning, and creativity in a positive and encouraging environment. The friendships and connections you'll make here will inspire and motivate you on your artistic journey.
Don’t Put Off Your Creative Dreams -
Join The Whiskers to Wildlife Academy Today
Thank you so much for your interest in the Whiskers to Wildlife Academy —it truly means the world to me!
I cannot wait for you to join us and see what wonderful drawings you'll create.
⚠️ As long as you remain a member of the Academy in good standing your membership fee will never increase!
"My idea of Heaven is to wake up, have a good breakfast, and spend the rest of the day drawing." Peter Falk
Our beautiful boys, Angus & Paddington.
