"Mariam with Cardinal"

Mariam with Cardinal

digital, archival prints, 7/2021

 close up

First, I did the woman's smiling face with dramatic light and shade.  I thought, "It needs a bird", so I added the cardinal.  As I was working I was reminded of an experience that occurred in 2002.  I had bought my forever home property, in the deep country of Washington Parish, LA.  While the house was being built by family and friends we camped out by the creek.  

I was cooking for a group, so set up an outdoor kitchen.  A bird built a nest in the kitchen area, she was not bothered by my presence as she flew back and forth to feed her new hatchlings.  At one point she was sitting on the edge of her nest staring at me.  I stared back.  When she blinked her eyes, I blinked my eyes.  I waited a few moments and blinked again, she blinked back.  This exchange went on for several minutes before she flew off for more baby food.  I know, maybe it was just coincidence that she blinked in reaction to my blinks.  But, I believe that we were communicating.  That we were having a friendly conversation.  

I was reminded of this and so painted eye contact between the woman and bird in this picture.