For months and months now, I've had the urge to create a range of paintings on pallet wood (especially after deciding to take a break from painting my much-loved succulents on pallet wood), featuring some of South Africa's amazing birds.
I wanted them to be something totally different from my usual photo-realistic style. Something fun, whimsical and unique! For the longest time, I just didn't have a clear image in my head of what I wanted them to look like...
Finally, after much sketching, inspiration struck!
Did you draw as a child? I hardly ever stopped! Nowadays, when I'm feeling stuck during the creative process (or even when I'm writing!), I find nothing works better to get the juices flowing than setting pen to paper. It's as if I'm ten years old again, sitting long-legged on the carpet, doodling away. No inhibitions, no fear of messing up. Just pure creativity and fun!
Anyway, back to the new birdies...
Inspired by the bright colours - contrasting with sharp black - and simplified shapes of our popular Wooden Animal Mask range, I tackled the first bird: A Cape Robin-chat. This handsome fellow has set the tone for the rest of the range.
Soon followed a few of my personal favourites: A Cape Sugarbird, perched on a protea; a striking Malachite Kingfisher; a cheeky little Cape White-eye; a gorgeous Helmeted Guinea Fowl; and a stunning Southern Double-collared Sunbird.
Given that South Africa has over 900 bird species to choose from - one more beautiful than the next - I'll never want for subject matter! Right now, I have an African Penguin, Crimson-breasted Shrike and an Orange-breasted Sunbird well underway.
I plan to never repeat the exact same design twice (although of course I'll be happy to repeat a bird, just styled in a different way) - so each painting will be totally unique.
Each piece is hand-painted on pallet wood, lovingly prepared by my carpenter husband, Alex, from The Modest Toolbox. I especially love the round shape of the artworks - it makes for a unique and elegant feel!
Each piece measures about 21cm in diameter, and will look charming either as a set or individually. They are hand-signed and dated and sealed with matt varnish. They are R900 each.
At this stage, they are not yet available in my online shop (coming soon, though - watch this space!). BUT, I am open to a very limited amount of special requests - just name your favourite birdie, and I'll bring it to life! Make sure to contact me early to avoid disappointment.
