While hiking, I caught two lovebirds having dinner. On a romantic afternoon they met, waiting their turn ever so patiently to grab some nourishment, all the while keeping one eye to the sky for danger. After each was satisfied, together they flew off looking for their next adventure.
How romantic and just in time for Valentine’s!
I was so inspired by these two, I had to paint them myself. As I was painting, I had an “ah-ha” moment; with a rigger brush and my mixture of black paint, I painted the bill of the right blue jay and suddenly saw the likeness of a crow. I always knew that the blue jay and the crow were related, but it wasn’t until my hand physically recreated the blue jay’s bill that I suddenly saw a resemblance to the crow. “Oooooh”, I said.
This is a great example of how an artist can become intimate with a subject through painting. You really can learn a great deal.
Click here for “Blue Jay Lovebirds” original watercolor purchase information.
Let's Paint Nature! 
Beautiful!
Love the painting almost as much as the bird. I wish I had your talent with watercolors.
This is so beautifully done! I am often struck with the same thought when I am sketching in my nature journal. My eye can see something but it does not register until I try to make sense of it with my hand making the sketch. It is a wonderful way to learn to see details and that is one reason I think nature study and keeping journals is so very important to children as well as adults.
Thanks for sharing your painting.
Beautiful painting. In our neck of the woods the blue jays are not quite so patient with one another. On the other hand, we’re getting into nesting season…
I love your interpretation of this scene. It’s gorgeous and perfect for Valentine’s!
I am really enjoying your blog. Your paintings are great.
Just Gorgeous! I love the painting and your story.
One Seed Chicago: Thanks! With a little help, I bet you can paint just as well 🙂
Barb: You’re welcome! Yes, as a fellow artist, you know exactly what I’m talking about!
Lana: Yeah nesting season! I have to wait a bit longer for that but really look forward to it. Spring is right around the corner.
Kelly: Thanks so much 😀
Sandy: Thank you! I have fun sharing art. Nature rocks!
Joan: Thanks! I love how the blue jays are facing each other, just like buddies.
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