Birds of Missouri
The poster that inspired a lifelong journey…
Growing up in the suburbs of St. Louis, I was surrounded by the natural beauty of Missouri, which had a significant influence on my artistic and professional career. My parents, both scientists and educators, decorated my nursery with a "Birds of Missouri" poster (see photo to the left), which was the first of many wildlife artworks that populated my life and home during my formative years.
I spent most of my free time exploring the local flora and fauna, particularly the birds, and exploring Missouri's enchanting forests, lakes, and gullies. I often brought my sketchbook along and drew the animals and plants I encountered on my adventures. This melding of art, science, and naturalism has been a significant source of inspiration for my artwork and professional career.
In this series of mixed-media pieces, I draw upon my experiences in the woods and trees, as well as my interactions with the beautiful birds of Missouri, to create works that reflect my deep appreciation for the natural world. Through my art, I seek to capture the beauty and wonder of the creatures and landscapes that have shaped my life and continue to inspire me to this day.
Blue Jay (watercolor, ink, acrylic, colored pencil, watercolor pencil, gel medium, rice paper, collaged on a vintage bird book page)
Cedar Waxwing (watercolor, ink, acrylic, colored pencil, watercolor pencil, gel medium, rice paper, collaged on a vintage bird book page)
Black-capped Chickadee (watercolor, ink, acrylic, colored pencil, watercolor pencil, gel medium, rice paper, collaged on a vintage bird book page)
Red-winged Blackbird (watercolor, ink, acrylic, colored pencil, watercolor pencil, gel medium, rice paper, collaged on a vintage bird book page)
Rufous Hummingbird (watercolor, ink, acrylic, colored pencil, watercolor pencil, gel medium, rice paper, collaged on a vintage bird book page)
Wood Duck (watercolor, ink, acrylic, colored pencil, watercolor pencil, gel medium, rice paper, collaged on a vintage bird book page)