For a long time, I had a fear of birds. Walks along the Yarra River became a regular occurrence, but I would hear the flutter of wings and immediately duck for cover before any bird of any colour, size or species came within my peripheral vision, and at the repeated amusement of my friends…and passing cyclists. I realised that this fear was preventing me from fully embracing the daily joy of spending time in God’s creation. I would look down at my feet instead of absorbing and appreciating the beautiful diversity and colours of the birds that surrounded me: Rainbow Lorikeets, Cockatoos, and I eventually even warmed up to Magpies.
The Major Mitchell Cockatoo, captured in this painting, is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful parrots in the world. Sadly, this colourful cockatoo is critically endangered in Victoria. It is commonly identified by its white and salmon pink body with a striking red and yellow crown. I have added layers of colours and texture to reflect the vibrancy and beauty that this bird brings to Australian wildlife as well as to my own life. The bold colours used also demonstrate the unfathomable beauty of God and the way He provided my every need during a period of personal struggle, just as he provides every day for the birds. Matthew 6:26 says “Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” Our Father also promises us a life of everlasting abundant joy. The beauty I discovered was the JOY IN LOOKING UP. Every day. You'll find the joy you seek. The joy of the Lord is and always will be, my strength. I hope that my art will also bring joy to you.
This artwork is an acrylic painting on 380gsm pure cotton canvas. It has been varnished with 2 layers of gloss varnish to bring out the depth of colour and to protect the artwork from UV rays. Edges painted.
It comes with a signed certificate of authenticity and is also signed and dated on the back of the painting. Ready to hang.