Tag Archives: Cockatoo art

Sometimes the most memorable visitors arrive uninvited.

Berry Bandits captures a delightful moment in the Australian bush—a pair of endangered Gang-gang Cockatoos helping themselves to the ripe berries of a hawthorn tree with complete confidence. Their inquisitive nature and playful partnership transform an ordinary garden into the scene of a charming heist.

Known for their distinctive calls, gentle personalities and unmistakable crests, Gang-gang Cockatoos have become an increasingly precious sight as habitat loss and environmental pressures have contributed to their decline. This painting celebrates not only their beauty but also serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting Australia’s unique birdlife.

Commissioned by a passionate bird lover, Berry Bandits was created to capture the joy these remarkable birds bring whenever they appear. The rich crimson berries echo the vibrant splash of colour on the male’s head, while the textured foliage provides a natural stage for their playful antics.

The accompanying photograph of the owner holding the completed artwork marks the end of one creative journey and the beginning of another, as Berry Bandits finds its permanent home. More than a painting, it is a lasting reminder of treasured encounters with two charismatic visitors who proved that, when berries are ripe, every garden has its bandits.

My painting called “Jacko” is now the label for delicious Korijekup Honey created by Exploration Honey, Harvey, Western Australia.

The land around Harvey was named Korijekup by the Nyoongar people, which means “place of the red-tailed black cockatoo”. Exploration Honey bees have foraged from the forests around Korijekup to produce this beautiful raw honey.

Black Cockatoos have a very special place in our hearts and we need to do everything we can to help them. Exploration Honey have planted tree plantations to help feed the black cockatoos and provided a Cockatube nesting box for them to breed in. All with the assistance of the Peel-Harvey Catchment Council.

Exploration Honey comes from around the South West of Western Australia. They take pride in producing and supplying delicious and healthy honey to the very best locations in their area, ensuring sustainability along the way.

My oil painting of a female Gang-gang Cockatoo called “Cherry Ripe” received an Award of Excellence at Australia’s preeminent bird art competition the Holmes Prize for Realistic Australian Bird Art 2022.

Just to be chosen as one of the 35 competition finalist is a major achievement. To receive an Award of Excellence amongst Australia’s leading bird artists is a great honour and very validating.

“Cherry Ripe” took nearly 7 weeks to paint in oils. She was painted specifically as my entry in this competition.

I have to send a huge thank you to my photographer friend Perry Cho who graciously allowed use of his photo as a reference for my interpretation.

“Chick Pea” my painting of a smiling Carnaby Cockatoo is now the Currambine Primary School Emblem.

Thanks to Natalie Heartcliffe – Art Specialist at Currambine Primary School a print of my painting of “Chick Pea” will be the face that welcomes everyone to the school.

With my permission the print of “Chick Pea” has received a new name “ERIC” which is an acronym to help inspire Currambine Primary School students to use their Excellence, Respect, Integrity and Kindness.

Special thank you to photographer Mark Molinari for graciously providing the reference photo used as inspiration for this painting. Sadly Mark passed away 2022.