Tag Archives: bird oil painting

Wild Heart Gallery, USA – Congratulations Nicky Shelton for “Swoop” earning Finalist in our MOOD. Animals with Attitude 2026 juried international virtual exhibition

Artist’s description: “Swoop is my character driven portrait of an Australian Magpie, captured with only one eye visible, a deliberate artistic choice that transforms a familiar bird into a symbol of resilience and individuality. By focusing one eye, the work invites the viewer into an intimate, almost confrontational moment, where the bird’s intelligence and defiant spirit become the emotional centre of the piece. The portrait honours the Magpie’s reputation in Australian culture, bold, territorial, mischievous, while also revealing a quieter vulnerability beneath its sharp gaze. This tension between toughness and tenderness gives the work its emotional weight. Rendered with strong contrast and a minimalist composition, the piece draws attention to texture, expression, and personality rather than environmental detail. The result is a portrait that feels both iconic and intimate: a tribute to the everyday wildlife that shapes Australian identity, and a reminder that even the most ordinary creatures carry extraordinary stories.”

61 x 36 x 1.5 inches, Oil on Canvas

“Marty” – Carnaby Cockatoo painted in oils was Sold and shipped to his new home in Italy on 26th September 2021. “Marty’s” new owner was so thrilled with her acquisition, telling me how excited she was to be receiving a painting that would brighten the dark time of living through Covid in Europe.

Both Marty’s new owner and I kept a close eye on his movements across the oceans to his new home. Touching base with one another when we both received confirmation he had arrived in Italy approximately 2 weeks after his departure from the shores of Australian. That was 14th October 2021.

With much anticipation we continued to track the whereabouts of “Marty”. Milan – December 4th 2021 is the last Tracking record of his location.

There has been no news since then.

Sadly all endevours to locate “Marty” have failed. We can only hope with fingers and toes crossed he will arrive at his new owners destination or be returned to his artistic creator.

Where are you “Marty”?