Wild Life Drawing: Sketch the Savannah

Hear that? It's the savannah calling. For one night only, we will be treated to an incredible show of amazing birds from across the African plains including storks, vultures and owls. This is an incredible VIP opportunity to draw this incredible variety of species from life, observe feeding, flying and natural behaviours and really get the know the birds.

This special evening will take place after-hours at the Gauntlet Birds of Prey centre in Knutsford, Manchester, and will be hosted by two of the most passionate and enthusiastic bird experts you could hope to meet – Daisy and Jake Bessant. Along with their dad, the Bessants a family of falconers and birds truly run in their blood. Together they run experiences and flying displays at their centre, they raise endangered hatchlings to be released in the wild, they rescue birds in need and make frequently trips to Africa to ring and relocate wild vultures, helping to save their plummeting populations. 

Daisy will introduce us to the White Storks and gigantic Marabou storks she has raised from eggs, as well as some of the more usual species found on the savannah – Dotty the Red-legged Seriema and the secretary bird. We will welcome some of the vulture species (including previous WLD model Maverick the Hooded Vulture) and Jake will explain the ecology of the habitat and how all these birds live alongside each other with their own place within the ecosystem. We'll also have superstar Gerrald the Milky Eagle Owl along for the session, watching over us from his perch.

Bird lover and wildlife artist Jennie Webber will be hosting the class, beginning with an in-depth introduction to drawing moving models. We will look closely at bird anatomy and the simple shapes you can use to build these beautiful birds on your paper. The class is open to all abilities (especially beginners) so whether you haven’t drawn since school or you draw on the daily, we guarantee you'll leave with some lovely drawings and a deep knowledge of the birds. Wild Life Drawing is like art therapy and animal therapy combined, and it is a wonderful way to connect with nature, boost your confidence and lower your stress levels. 

We will provide refreshments and all the art materials you need to get going, including drawing boards, paper and a colourful array of materials - but do feel free to bring along anything you'd particularly like to work with. Children aged 7 and over are welcome if accompanied by an adult also taking part in the class. 

Our start time of 6pm allows for an after-hours tour of the Gauntlet centre and your entrance fee is included in the ticket price, as well as a donation to the Gauntlet Conservation Trust.