8932 Rabbit
Jerry Yarnell – Inspiration of Painting PBS Television Series

In this beginner acrylic painting lesson, Jerry guides you step-by-step through creating this delightful wildlife portrait on an 18 x 24 canvas during a 57 minute lesson. A gentle cottontail rabbit quietly rests among tall grasses as soft morning light and subtle background colors create a peaceful woodland setting. This charming scene beautifully captures the quiet nature and alert expression of one of North America's most beloved woodland animals.

You'll learn how to paint realistic rabbit anatomy, expressive eyes, and soft fur while creating convincing grasses, natural lighting, and beautiful background depth. Jerry demonstrates how to establish the rabbit's basic proportions first, then gradually refine the facial features, fur textures, tall grasses, and soft background using simple, easy-to-follow techniques that are perfect for beginning wildlife artists.

Special focus is given to painting realistic rabbit fur, expressive animal eyes, long ears, tall grasses, soft hazy backgrounds, natural lighting, wildlife details, and subtle earth tones using layered acrylic techniques, controlled brushwork, and blended color transitions. You'll also explore techniques for creating lifelike fur textures, believable grasses, realistic shadows, and the peaceful atmosphere that brings this woodland portrait to life.

By the end of this lesson, you'll gain confidence in painting wildlife, realistic fur, and natural outdoor settings while learning how to combine accurate animal anatomy with soft background scenery into a harmonious composition. This is an excellent beginner project for artists wanting to strengthen their acrylic painting skills while creating a beautiful rabbit portrait filled with warmth, realism, and woodland charm.