Time to Leave the Nest

“Time to Leave the Nest” is a heartfelt narrative captured within a compact 3.5" x 3" realm. Nestled in a sleek black hexagonal frame measuring 5.25" x 4.5", this delicate piece captures a pivotal moment in the life of a young cardinal on the brink of independence.

Crafted with a blend of watercolor gouache and meticulously hand-cut paper, this piece brings to life a serene family scene. A beautiful female cardinal watches over the scene with her characteristic tan and red plumage, while her colorful bright red male cardinal (no longer a baby) sits on the nest, waiting his turn to fly. Together they are enveloped by lush green foliage, all resting against a serene blue sky that amplifies their colors with a touch of tranquility and hope.

The title, "Time to Leave the Nest," captures the essence of this moment; it's about the juncture in time when it becomes necessary to step forward into the unknown. Drawing inspiration from the universal experience of growing up—be it birds or humans—I wanted this piece to evoke the same vigilance and emotion as a mother watching her child take the first steps into school. It's a celebration of courage and the bittersweet excitement that comes with new beginnings.

Creating this three-dimensional artwork was a uniquely fulfilling process. Each feather, each leaf, was painstakingly cut and painted to convey the vibrancy and life found in nature. The intricate layering of these elements brings depth to the composition, allowing the scene to leap off the canvas in a breathtaking multi-dimensional display.

The process of bringing this narrative to life was truly a labor of love, one where every detail was molded with care to depict this picturesque slice of nature's cycle. The miniature scale offered both challenges and joy, urging me to breathe life into the smallest features and craft an intimate visual story.

This piece invites viewers to pause and reflect on their moments of transition—the times when leaving the nest brings its own unknown adventures. Whether you view this piece in person or online, I hope "Time to Leave the Nest" resonates with you, whispering the timeless story of growth, change, and the beauty of life's ever-evolving journey.

This piece is available for purchase at Seaside Art Gallery in Nags Head, NC. It can be viewed on line or in person at the gallery.

Ruby Throated Hummingbird Visits A Morning Glory Garden

Welcome to Hummingbird’s Paradise, my latest artistic endeavor! Picture this: a kaleidoscope of colors where nature's tiny acrobat, the hummingbird, flits and dances amidst a riotous assembly of morning glory blooms. This vibrant artwork is an invitation to pause, breathe, and revel in the wonder of the natural world.

Now, let's talk about the dazzling diva of this piece—the hummingbird. With its iridescent feathers flashing shades of green and blue, and a splash of red trimming its head and throat, this critter isn’t just any bird; it’s nature’s very own flying gem! The flashy feathers almost sparkle, promising to catch your eye wherever you display this slice of paradise.

And those flowers? They're not just mere blooms; they are the essence of joy personified in petals. With shades ranging from blushing pinks to regal purples, each flower boasts an intricate design topped with sunburst yellow centers. The lifelike, textured green leaves weave a tapestry of verdant serenity around the blossoms, grounding the scene with just the right amount of earthy calm.

The inspiration for this lively tableau comes from the seemingly magical moments when nature and art collide. There’s something uniquely fulfilling in capturing a fleeting moment—like the split-second twinkle of a hummingbird’s iridescent coat shining in the sunlight. By bottling up that magic on canvas, I hope to offer a bit of paradise that viewers can experience and revisit anytime.

Creating Hummingbird’s Paradise wasn't just an exercise in painting; it was an adventure in exploration. Embarking on this creative journey meant paying meticulous attention to each flicker of the bird's wings and the delicate curl of every petal. As I worked, the piece demanded a playful balance between the wild spontaneity of nature and the disciplined structure of detailed artwork. It was art meeting nature, and, dare I say, they shook hands with a wink and a promise.

So, take a moment to get lost in Hummingbird’s Paradise. Let your imagination wander through the vibrant hues and intricate details—and who knows? Maybe you'll catch a tiny glimpse of paradise, too! To purchase “Hummingbird’s Paradise, head over to my Shop for all the details.