Blue Jays

Today finds me sketching our blue jays as the snow starts falling.  Their brilliant blue feathers shine on this overcast day, begging to be painted.  With ink and watercolor, I capture their forms on miniature handmade paper.  On these small squares, I am zooming in a bit, breaking the edges with the forms.  It seems to happen naturally as I work, and I like it.  We have quite of few of these birds, some coming to the feeders, but most seen on lawn and field.  I can always hear their distinct call, and they play well with the others.  My Mom used to complain about how aggressive her blue jays were, but I don't see that here.  As the temperature drops, I paint faster, but not before those fingertips get cold!  Should have had my handwarmers!  Painting number 2951 in 2951 days. 

Blue Jay Play

Blue Jay Play
Oil on panel, 12x6

On this snowy day, these beauties await a turn at the feeders right outside my kitchen windows.  This family of blue jays has tamed the Bully Mockingbird who had been chasing all birds from the feeders!  There are five of them, all very sweet, getting along with the other birds just fine - except for the one who came chasing after them.  That little mockingbird would race around the house, nipping at birds much larger than herself, until finally she had bullied them all into submission.  The blue jays would not have it.  They simply chased right back, refusing to submit.  Now, she is well behaved and stays in her own part of the yard, allowing all birds to enjoy our little slice of heaven.  We have a good 6 inches of snow already, and another 1 to 4 is expected tonight.  Hope you are all staying warm and dry!  Painting number 400 in 400 days!  Time for a glass of wine and a heated blanket :)