Have you noted the return of birds near your home? They are one of my favorite things to observe. It has been lovely seeing them in the trees and hearing their songs as I walk my dog this past week. 

“In-Flight” the oil pastel above, was inspired by the house sparrows that clamber for position at the feeder in my yard.  I snapped a photo of this sweet bird after sitting in my backyard, back against a large silver maple tree, cannon camera in hand, for about a half hour while the birds jostled for position to seize some seed.  It was well worth the wait to have a good reference photo.

I find first hand observation paired with a photo ideal.  Working from direct observation is my preference, but photographs help to capture the essence of something in motion allowing me to denote detail that in turn improves my painting. 

The original of this work is in the private collection of a fellow bird lover, but I do have limited edition signed giclée prints available, 5.25” x 8.25”.

Spring is in the air!!

Best wishes,

Stef

https://stefanietaranto.com