Original artwork description:

The work was inspired by a friend of mine, who is devoted to her animals. These are not her dogs, (they are actually the pets of another friend,) but the birds are hers.

The affection is so strong between her and the birds; they are so loving, but so argumentative with each other, just like children! Only these are very exotic children, and equally demanding.

I wanted to show her stillness and beauty in amongst this melee of animals. Her fine colouring against the blaze of the birds' fathers; her sleek hair compared to the silky coats of the dogs; her softness of feature in contrast to the angularity of the greyhounds.

It was very intensive to paint, but thoroughly enjoyable, and the colours were dazzling to recreate!

Materials used:

oil paint/egg tempera