#2737 "Bohemian Waxwings"

#2737 "Bohemian Waxwings"
Oils on 20x16 by 1.5 inches Gallery Mount Canvas

A flock of Bohemian Waxwings will often pass through the Singleton Sanctuary - typically in autumn or winter. The flock might include ten to twenty individuals that seem to really enjoy the small, purple cones on the red cedars. They are a pleasure to watch as the birds bounce, boisterously through the limbs of the forest. They do not stay still for very long. 

The Bohemian waxwing is a starling-sized bird that breeds in the northern forests of  North America. It has mainly buff-grey plumage, black face markings and a pointed crest. The English name "waxwing" refers to the bright red tips of the secondary feathers on its wings, which resemble drops of sealing wax. "Bohemian" alludes to the bird's vagabond-like wanderings, or perhaps to presumed origin from Bohemia. 

I had three palettes on the go for this series of bird paintings. I reserved specific colours for each palette … one for each colour emphasis. It is essential to keep the oils clean. 

Often the first question from someone viewing my art is "How long did it take for you to do this?". This query implies that time and speed matter - they most certainly do not. Only the quality of the final painting is important. I do not paint for anything they might think is worthwhile. The memories and messages from the art are the only things that are important. If artists worked "on the clock", the real value of creation would soon be lost. 

#2737 "Bohemian Waxwings"
in progress...

This particular work is based on a terrific photo taken by my friend and naturalist John Verburg. John has graciously encouraged me to work from any of his fine images that chronicle the precious natural environment of the Frontenac Arch Biosphere. John has a gift for capturing the essence as well as the beauty of nature. Achieving these images requires more than skill and knowledge of optics and modern camera technology but also considerable patience waiting for that special moment. Our desire is that upon viewing nature through his photographs and perhaps my art, more people will appreciate the vital importance of protecting the natural world. A healthy habitat takes thousands of years to develop but can be irretrievably destroyed in brief hours under the guise of development. 

For this and much more art, click on Pixels.

Warmest regards and keep your paddle in the water,

Phil Chadwick