The Bird Series: The Dialogue of Praise/A sky full of Selah
In this series, the floral works matures into a song of thanksgiving. These paintings explore the delicate beauty of the winged ones as they inhabit the atmosphere of worship, reminding us that we were made to soar in His presence.
Technical Note: The Art of Uncovering
Each piece in this series is an exploration of Oil and Mixed Media, beginning with a foundation of deep, layers color. Using the subtraction method, I “carve” into the wet paint to reveal the light beneath - a process that mirrors the way thanksgiving clears the heart to see the Creator’s hand.
The final layers of ink and refined oil work bring definition to the “Spectrum of Praise,” ensuring that while the form is delicate, the presence is profound.
A SKY FULL OF SELAH (The sacred frequency) Oil paint on canvas | 42/30cm > In the rush of a thousand wingbeats, there is a sacred pause. This piece captures the hummingbird - a living vessel of praise - suspended in a moment of “Selah.” It is a visual heartbeat of thanksgiving, where the vibrant energy of the Creator meets the quiet stillness of a soul at rest. Against a backdrop of gilded light, it reminds us that even the smallest creature carries a melody of gratitude. “Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.” (Psalm 150:6)
BEHOLD THE RADIANT QUIET (The Radiance of Reflection) > Mixed Media and Oil on Unstreched Canvas | 42/30cm. A companion to the “Selah” moments of life, this piece portray a bird at rest, bathed in a descending glow of heavenly light. Nestled among the bold, intricate petals of blooming hibiscus, the subject is not merely sitting, but “beholding”. It is a visual exploration of how quietude can be radiant - a reminder that when we still our souls before God, we become mirrors of the very Light that sustains us. “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10)
THE GOLDEN THREAD OF HOPE (The Tapestry of Trust) > Mixed Media and Oil on Unstreched Canvas | 42/30cm. A study in texture and quiet expectation, this piece captures a bird nestled on a branch edged in gold leaves, Set against the deep, meditative violet, the intricate detailing of the feathers - layered like a woven tapestry - speaks to the complexity and care of creation. It is a portrait of security, showing a small life perfectly held within a larger, vibrant world. “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care.” (Matthew 10;29)
ASCENDING PRAISE (The Anatomy of an Amen) > Unstreched Canvas 42/30cm. This mixed media and Oil Painting serves as a visual bridge between the whisper of a prayer and the shout of hallelujah. Set against a deep textured teal and indigo background, a vibrant bird stands perched among rising blossoms, its gaze fixed upward in a posture of expectant gratitude. It captures the exact moment a prayer is released - not into a void, but into the waiting heart of the Father. “I will sacrifice a thank offering to You and call on the Name of the Lord.” (Psalm 116:17)
THE FRAGRANCE OF FAITHFULNESS (The Rest of the recipient) > Oil Paint on Unstreched Canvas, 42/30cm. A tender portrayal of rest and intimacy, this painting features a bird nestled deeply within a cluster of soft, unfolding blossoms. The dark, atmospheric background serves to illuminate the subject, highlighting the delicate interplay between the creature and the bloom. It captures the quiet confidence of one who has found shelter in a promise and is content to simply abide in its fragrance. “He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.” (Psalm 91:4)
THE GLOW OF THE GRATEFUL (The Sanctuary of the Small) > Mixed media and Oil Paint on unstreched Canvas, 42/30cm. In this vibrant study of light and life, a small bird is cradled by a lush canopy of golden edged leaves and soft unfolding blooms. The piece explores the concept of “inner light” - the way a heart filled with thanksgiving radiates outward, even when tucked away in the shadows of the garden. The rich textures and warm palette create a sense of divine abundance, where every petal and leaf is a testament to the Creator’s intricate care. “Those who look to Him are radiant; their faces are never covered with shame.” (Psalm 34:5)
THE PALETTE OF PROMISE (The Masterpiece of Mercy) > Mixed media and Oil on Unstreched Canvas, 42/30cm. This piece explores the “Masterpiece of Mercy” through a living spectrum of color. Using a signature blend of oil and ink, the layered plumage serves as a visual reminder that God’s mercies are new every morning - overlapping strokes of grace that create a shield of peace. Through the subractive method, light is pulled from the weathered depth of the background, symbolising how hope breaks through the shadows of our circumstances. “His faithfulness is a shield and a buckler.” (Psalm 91:4)
SANCTUARY IN THE SAPPHIRE (The Cover of the Crest) > Mixed Media and Oil on Unstreched Canvas, 42/30cm. A majestic Cockatoo perches upon a ruggedly textured branch. While the bird’s body glows with a luminous, buttery yellow, its wings are a deep electric sapphire, The contrast between the soft vibrant feathers and the rough , dark of the branch creates a powerful visual of a creature that is both delicate and bold,, finding a place of absolute rest in a quiet atmosphere. “Because You are my help, I sing in the shadow of Your wings. I cling to You; Your right hand upholds me.” (Psalm 63:7-8)
Spectrum of praise (Strength in the Stretch) > Oil Paint on stretched Canvas, 45/35cm. A vibrant Macaw, captured in mid-flight, its wings fully extended as it soars through a dark, ethereal space with glimmering light. The spectrum of its plumage - brilliant teals, deep blues, and warm yellows - cuts through the dark background like a streak of living light. The Subtraction method creates a sense of wind and movement in the negative space around the wings. “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40;31)
LAYERED MERCIES (The Anatomy of Grace) > Oil Paint on stretched Canvas | 45/35cm. A majestic Macaw is rendered with depth, focusing on the intricate overlap of its feathers. The cool tones suggest a quiet early morning light. The bird’s presence is calm and substantial, filling the frame with a sense of “layered” history and beauty that has been purposefully revealed through the artist’s hand. “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 2:22-23)
THE HERALD OF THE MORNING PRAISE (The watchman) > Oil Paint on Stretched Canvas, 40/30cm). A proud and dignified Rooster stands in the “blue hour” just before sunrise. Unlike a soft garden bird, this subject has a fierce and intentional posture. Its feathers are a rich tapestry of colors revealed through the dark oil, and its stance is one of unwavering confidence. It is not merely waiting for the light; it is announcing it. “The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.” (Romans 13:12)