Title: The Nest

Year: 2021 (Started Jan 28, 2021, competed May 11, 2021

Medium: Original Drawing in Black Ink

Paper: Arches 100% Cotton 280GSM deckled edges

Size: 41 inches high x 72 inches wide

Artist Notes: I found a red-winged blackbird next while out trail running with my dog. We later took a hike to document photos and video’s of the next for later study. I have a collection of nests in my studio that have been blown down by storms.

A nest is a reoccurring theme in my ink art work. Symbolic of life from beginning to end, Mother Nature, motherhood and nurture and survival. What does an empty nest say to you? Success in raising a family, an empty home, shelter, love, or commitment. Perhaps a place to start again. Nest varieties based on species are fascinating. The red-winged blackbird will sometimes next in open fields. Using the immediate surroundings of grasses formed in a cup like shape with deep walls to secure and brave against winters and winds. I find the intricate design and the craft and care it takes for our little winged friend to build this home matches the style of detail and delicate care I take in rendering the ink drawing with the tiniest of ink pen nibs over a long period of time.