Fluffed Out 6"x6" acrylic

This is a large-ish, fluffed out house finch on a chilly, almost winter day.  The last few days I have noticed that the house finches that are showing up are a bit thinner and more ragged looking.  It is like those of us who choose to stay in a cold climate....we are survivors but a little rough on the edges!

Hollywood 4"x4" acrylic

One thing you can say about bluejays is that despite their loud squawking and bullyish behavior, they are stunning to look at.  Kind of reminds me of Hollywood!

Nuthatch 4"x4" oil

I love the way nuthatches hang upside down and flit around.  Still having fun with my new painting toys.

 
   

Downy Woodpecker 4"x4" oil

A Downy Woodpecker on a Sumac bush.  Sumac bushes are so cool looking....very graphic when the sun shines through them and casts strong shadows.  The berries are fuzzy, more seed-like but they make a good lemonadish drink when you brew them.  I love the red against the background of heavy snow clouds.  This is more playing around with my new spatula brushes.

Chickadee 4"x4" oil

Cardinal 4"x4" oil

I am trying out some new things.  I got some spatula type paint brushes as a gift.  They are similar to a palette knife, but shaped like a paint brush.  Anyway, they are really fun to use...it was like being a child again and just playing.  I have been wanting to do some birds as I have a pretty nice bird sanctuary outside my studio window and was inspired by Angela Moulton's beautiful little paintings of birds.