Taft-Nicholson Environmental Humanities Center Art Residency

Many bird species stop in the Centennial Valley during migration to take advantage of the food, shelter, and water sources it provides. Some choose to stay in the valley and rear their young in an ideal location for their species.

The Western Meadowlark is a species that stays for the breeding season, and their loud, melodic song announcing their presence is unmistakable.

Admittedly, pretty much every animal and plant I meet excites my sense of wonder and respect. But some can do it time and time again, as if I am just meeting it for the first time every time.

The Meadowlark triggers happiness every time I see and hear it.

As an artist, working out the forms and patterns of animals is a deeply engaging process. Beginning with a sketch in graphite, bringing watercolors to the process, I’m using both sides of my brain to “work it out”.

This is an infinite well of gratification.

Western Meadowlark
Watercolor
8x12” (unframed)