Stories from the artist

Birds’ instinctive and learned artistry in building their nests is a constant source of wonder.   Most of us enjoy strolling along a beach, collecting driftwood and shells. However, for some birds this exercise is necessary to build a home and to ensure their chicks are safe.   This painting was inspired by a Caspian Tern’s nest. Terns are migratory diving birds and make do with very little on seashores and estuaries. They often dig a shallow depression in the sand then disguise their nest with what nature provides – shells, driftwood and seaweed. Tern eggs are especially vulnerable to being taken by gulls and [...]

In Kenya, I watched a Weaver Bird work its magic hanging upside-down as it meticulously knitted blades of grass into an empty cocoon shape. At day’s end a female examined the completed nest and settled in. It was a success. Unacceptable nests are dismantled and tossed to the ground by the female. [...]