Seventy-one bird paintings later

I think it's pretty official I have a bird brain. Or rather this Bird/Hen/Chick has birds on her mind. I finally had to ask myself Why? Here’s my top 3:

1. The way the wind plays with their feathers, the way they puff up against the cold...well that just speaks to my love of movement, texture & line; an excellent pairing with my paper technique.

2. Erect heads and chests-thrown-out-poses suggest “too sexy for the catwalk” attitudes. They don't sit around and contemplate their state of affairs, they are in the moment: Where food? Water? Danger? Mate? Defend territory & young! Impress potential mates! Each moment counts. They are on the job and dressed for success. Capturable.

3. Bird imperatives and behaviours are ultimately relatable and I find connections and contrasts irresistible, such as portraying small birds with big attitudes or with moods common to humanity.

Thunderbird (So She Thought) ©2011 Col Mitchell Original on Gallery Style Canvas 8" x 8" x 1.5 " Contemporary Paper Art: Manipulated paper, fluid acrylics and inks on canvas

Sidekick ©2011 Col Mitchell Original on Gallery Style Canvas 6" x 6" x 1.5 " Contemporary Paper Art: Manipulated paper, fluid acrylics and inks on canvas

Dawn Promises ©2011 Col Mitchell Original on Gallery Style Canvas 6" x 6" x 1.5 " Contemporary Paper Art: Manipulated paper, fluid acrylics and inks on canvasA Mae West Wind ©2011 Col Mitchell Original on Gallery Style Canvas 6" x 6" x 1.5 " Contemporary Paper Art: Manipulated paper, fluid acrylics and inks on canvas