Curious Cockatiel. . .

Cameron and the Curious Cockatiel . 16 x 12" . oil on linen canvas

People who have been kind enough to commission your work in the past often bring you the most unusual and interesting requests.  In this case, a grandson of a dear friend will now have this intriguing moment in time firmly on the record!  There will be no myths, tall tales or conjecture about the cockatiel on his shoulder. . .No, generations to come will only have to point to this painting as proof positive. 

 

I feel there's amazing charm in capturing a young man on the cusp of being "all growed up."  With time flying by, it's lovely to see the man he will become and capture the light in his eyes. 

 

Somehow this spectacular bird came to be on Cameron's shoulder - I haven't been informed of all the details, or "particulars" as they say down here, as to how this happened, but naturally it was icing on the cake to have a bird to paint, in a landscape, with a boy!!!  If you share the habit of observing birds for your delight and occasionally your entertainment, you know they can be just as expressive as our human species.  Perhaps more! 

 

Please note as I beat the drum for all portrait painters once again - they have to be able to paint everything from clothing, to furniture to animals to people (think hands, ears, noses, eyes, convincing limbs, torsos!) to interiors, to exteriors and the list goes on and on.  There's no skating by or slacking in the drawing department when placing or painting your subjects in interesting backgrounds.  The challenge is beloved, of course, but it's well worth noting that the skill bar is set very high for portrait painting, perhaps the highest many would argue.  There are many things that can go wrong, obviously and your goal is to sucessfully bring all the elements together.  Sigh. . .hence, many sleepless nights or countless restless dreams of painting!

 

Once again it was an honor to paint for you Sarah - your giving, happy heart always inspires me and I thank you for that.  This will be a lovely gift because of your intention and thoughtfulness.

 

P.S.  Y'all don't forget to feed the birds this winter!