#005 & #006-Spring Birds

#005--Harbinger
Colored Pencil

I think I learned the word "harbinger" when I was in about the third grade. There are just some words that capture the imagination; this was one for me. I remember feeling that I had been given something beyond my kin: a beautiful bit of sound and power. The funny thing about my calling this picture "Harbinger," is that, while looking for a reference photo, I came across a site that contradicted my notion that robins return at the beginning of spring. It seems they are with us throughout the year, even being one of the only birds that sings through the winter. That, in itself, is a lovely thought isn't it?

#006--Robin
Acrylic on Canvas

I have been painting some things in acrylic and absolutely loving it! I have tried to paint in watercolors for a long time, and while I adore the look of watercolor, I just don't like the idea of not being able to make changes as easily as I can with acrylic. Just still trying to find my "voice" in painting. Since I am trying to learn on my own, without much background in art, I have been looking at work that I like and, in the spirit of the tradition of copying the works of master artists, using those artist's compositions to practice with. This painting is the first of this not-quite-original work that I have ever posted. I asked permission to post it from this wonderful artist. I love her joyous use of color and her delightful subject matter.