Title: Jan, Emu

Size: 22 inches wide by 30 inches high

Medium: Limited edition fine art replica print of original ink drawing

Paper: Hahnemuhle photo rag paper

Authentic: Signed by artist Andrew Naeger

Part of an ongoing series of bird portraits inspired by people I know, personalities I love or the nature of people and mannerisms I observe. One of my goals beyond documenting birds in my own style to bring attention to nature, the wild species of this world and the importance of their habitats, but also draw out similarities in comparisons to humans. Bringing the two closer together. This bird feels so punk and so special that I didn’t need a specific human to compare, but a style. This portrait is unique in this way as most in this series are about a specific human and bird matching.

Each portrait in this series take 1 to 3 months to complete. The line styles and patterns change based on not only the genetics of the bird, but thier personality I’m also trying to capture. Non are technical drawings per se, but feel close to nature. If you study close you will find some purposeful differences, especially in the eyes. Most to be more rounded to feel more human save a few examples.

Emus are sometimes mistaken as an Ostrich. They live about 1/3 as long, a little smaller and full of curiosity. Which can be taken as aggression. If you get close, watch your hair, camera, hats, jewelry, clothing and anything they might find curious. The will want to explore with their beak, which one can take as super friendly or intimidating alike. My Uncle Jan was curious, but mostly about people. He had such interest and compassion for others. He was thoughtful and kind and took the time to get to know someone and check in. Jan served in the Vietnam War and exposed to Agent Orange. Much later in his life, after raising three boys on his own, he passed due to extreme lung complications. There is compassion, kindness and a little sadness in the eyes. Someone who has been through a war, trials in life and lived shorter by measure than what they gave others while here. Miss you always, Uncle Jan.

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