(Sold)

My husband and I were out on our daily walk on the forest lined, secluded dirt road where our cabin is situated when we saw a small, bright blue bird fly through the dense woods. We stopped to watch it, and I immediately hoped that it was an indigo bunting. Indigo buntings are rare sight in this area, so I was very excited that we might have spotted one!

We went back and forth, debating if it was an Indigo Bunting or an Eastern Bluebird, either of them is a cause for excitement! Yet, we did not spot the telltale red belly of the Eastern Bluebird.

I quickly pulled out my phone and used a bird identification app to confirm which blue bird it might be. The Merlin app identifies birds by their call and soon, we were assured that it was an Indigo Bunting! We stood there in silence for just a few seconds, watching the elusive Bunting flit from tree to tree. It was so small and delicate, but that bold and vibrant blue was exhilarating! I felt so lucky to be able to witness its beauty. Soon, it was gone and I haven’t seen one since.

I was sad to see the Indigo Bunting disappear from my view, its vibrant blue feathers a fleeting flash of color in the sunny spaces within the trees. I didn’t want to forget that moment because it left such an impactful impression.

In my studio, I abandoned the yellow finches that I was painting and made quick progress on the hues and contrasts of the bird. I had to leave the painting partially done because it was time to return to the city for a few days. The very next weekend, as the painting took shape, I was transported back to that moment in time. The Indigo Bunting flew through the trees in real life but I wanted to celebrate its unique coloring. So I chose to paint it on a branch with a complimentary colorful sunset of oranges, pinks and yellows.

In the end, my artistic endeavor allowed me to preserve a fleeting encounter with a remarkable creature. As I write this and remember the encounter that warm, summer day, I am reminded that beauty can be found in almost any place. Especially when you look for it. I feel like it is up to us to capture and celebrate those moments, be it through paintbrushes, photography or story telling.

Thank you for sharing this moment with me! Do you care to share any moments that were so fleeting, yet, so very memorable?

If you are interested in a print of this painting, use the contact form below and we can work together on the perfect size and style of print for your home, office or gift.

If you are interested in more content visit my Patreon page.

• Patreon