Heron 50cm x 60cm

Capturing the moment of this graceful heron's explosive take off created such dynamic shapes I felt that it needed a more free and animated style of painting. The speed yet poise of this arial ballet dancer led me to this almost feverish and sketchy technique. I literally only had time to scratch the outlines into the wet paint and add hints of light and shade to form the contours of it's body before this magnificent creature was gliding through the sky into the distance. I feel this has led to a vibrant and free looking image.

I am so lucky to live very close to rivers and so I often get to see these astounding birds and I am very drawn to their sculptural and elegant forms both in flight and when perched, quietly surveying passers by.

Acrylic Painting 

50cm x 60cm stretched canvas