In the recent September newsletter, I introduced a new series I initiated as a creative response to a ‘call to artists’ by the Confluence Gallery in Twisp, WA. Their exhibition theme, ‘Taking Flight’, asked artists to offer bird themed art. In that article, I gave some description of how it ignited my creative juices; I introduced new imagery (birds), and methods (Xerox transfers, oil sticks/paints etc.). The most astonishing conclusion I’ve arrived at is, I’m delighted by the presence of images of ‘realistic’ birds. I will showcase a variety of completed pieces. Many are smaller, very affordable & may be wonderful as gifts; tis the season coming upon us very fast.
A bird’s presence has an energy that most humans relate to. Many of our needs overlap, and we tend to interpret their calls, situations & actions in anthropomorphic ways. Regardless, they still hold immense mystery as they occupy the air realm, an element foreign to our natural firm habitat of earth.
As I play with imagery invoking ideas of birds having relationships, individual & communal, I link both their natural character, as well as folklore associations. The osprey, a fishing hawk, captures a heart. A crane is out delivering a heart, saving the day, in a graceful way; so aspirational.
Given I was exploring a sources and methods of applying color, I played with different palettes, depending on the level of drama desired (also aligned with a bird’s essence).
For example, we consider crows as raucous, risk-takers, even pugnacious. Here, I honor its fiery nature & intelligence, as it considers the ‘lotus’, symbol of enlightenment. The Hummingbird’s beauty enthralls; it’s intelligence is as a Warrior, a strategist that can fly upward. It captivates hearts with its natural brilliance.
Crows work together to solve problems; here the heart is central to their mission of a
cohesive effort.
Compared to the intelligent crow, the dove is known for its softer nature; aligned with love, freedom and peace, what many humans aspire to.
Cranes, known for long migrations, are symbols of endurance, good fortune & renewal. What better transportation system could you hope for in delivering heart connections to complete life’s emotional quotient of well-being.
The last three pieces focus on the symbolism of the bird:
the crane as bringer of good fortune, (love/heart);
the crow as a symbol of karma/destiny (not always bad);
and the owl, connecting to the wisdom of subtle energies, especially the moon/intuition and heart/emotions.
I’d love to know how these new pieces connect with you. Any aspects of the new techniques and/or imagery making inroads into your heart? I love to hear from you…
And, please do consider purchasing some of these works as gifts for self or loved ones. The sooner you claim any, the faster I’ll get them out to you. If you are not in WA state, the good news is that tax won’t apply, just shipping (pretty inexpensive for such small works). I’ll take care of the handling them (time and money for packaging).