Cassowaries have always felt prehistoric to me — powerful, ancient, and deeply connected to the rainforest they inhabit. In creating Guardian, I wanted to capture that sense of quiet authority. Their steady gaze and striking form give the impression of a sentinel — watching, protecting, belonging completely to their environment.
The bold pastel strokes reflect the intensity of their natural colour, while the layered watercolour background suggests the depth and mystery of the rainforest. The vibrant blues create contrast and energy, allowing the cassowary’s luminous reds and turquoise tones to command attention.
This piece would bring strength and colour to a space — a statement work that feels both grounding and alive. It has presence without chaos, making it ideal for collectors who are drawn to wildlife with character and meaning.
Created using professional-grade soft pastel sticks (high pigment, minimal binder for lasting vibrancy) over a layered watercolour background on archival paper. When framed under glass, soft pastel artworks can retain their brilliance for generations.