The Common Redpoll is one of the most beautiful birds we get at our feeders in the fall and winter. Each bird is individual in its markings. The female has little or no red, while the male can literally look like it is bleeding from its chest. Some males are more white than others, while some seem to have a rusty glow about them. They are feisty little birds, and do not hesitate to chase away larger birds like the woodpecker from the feeder. They think the sunflowers are all for them! I love them and their cheerful chatter, even in the coldest weather. They are what I call "survivors" - which is what I feel like I am at times!
By the way, a bird like this one in watercolor takes anywhere from 5 - 8 hours to paint... they are tricky little creatures! But they are fun to watch come to life under your brush!
I have been "tagged" by two wonderful artists, Theresa Miller and Veronica Funk. This is "a fun way to get to know one another as artists".
The rules are to:
1. Put a link in your posting to the artist who tagged you.
2. List 7 unusual things about yourself.
3. Tag 7 other bloggers at the end of your post, and comment on their blogs to let them know they have been tagged.
Here are the 7 not-so-unusual-things about me:
1. I have received an Award of Excellence from Photographer's Forum Magazine.
2. I have had a photo published in a "Best of Photography" book.
3. I have been a waitress on a large ferry during a hurricane (not too many people in the dining room that day!).
4. I was an Elementary (grade school) teacher for 14 years.
5. I have written, directed and produced several full length dramas.
6. I have a daughter who lives in Mexico.
7. I live on 6 acres of land outside the city of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
The 7 artists I would like to tag are:
Have a great weekend, everyone!
If you wish to purchase Common Redpoll, or commission a similar painting, please contact me at jogiesbrecht@gmail.com.
