The Curious Personality of Birds

March 11, 2026

There is something fascinating about birds.

They have so much character. In the simple arch of a neck or the tilt of a head, a bird can seem suddenly human. A heavy-lidded eye can make it look skeptical, regal, sleepy, or amused. A puffed chest might read as proud.

For centuries, artists have been drawn to these familiar human like qualities. Birds are anthropomorphized because it is almost impossible not to notice these human like gestures. A pair of birds perched together can look like two friends gossiping. A lone heron looks resolute and determined. A beautiful cockatoo is surely vain.

I also am fascinated by birds for the freedom they represent and their sheer independence. Recently I tackled some Audubon like bird paintings and tried to imbue these birds with special personalities. Click on the image below for a link.

For some reason over the last year or two I keep painting yellow birds: finches, warblers, wagtails. Even their names are delightful. Click on image below for a yellow bird in a hand painted frame.

Birds are beloved for their vibrant plumage and simply cheeky personalities. Below are a series of cheerful bird prints, guaranteed to brighten any day.

From scientific illustration to decorative arts, birds have inspired artists for centuries. I'm sure I'll continue painting birds because they are endlessly delightful.

The Curious Personality of Birds

There is something fascinating about birds.

They have so much character. In the simple arch of a neck or the tilt of a head, a bird can seem suddenly human. A heavy-lidded eye can make it look skeptical, regal, sleepy, or amused. A puffed chest might read as proud.

I also am fascinated by birds for the freedom they represent and their sheer independence. Recently I tackled some Audubon like bird paintings and tried to imbue these birds with special personalities. Click on the image below for a link.

For some reason over the last year or two I keep painting yellow birds: finches, warblers, wagtails. Even their names are delightful. Click on image below for a yellow bird in a hand painted frame.

Birds are beloved for their vibrant plumage and simply cheeky personalities. Below are a series of cheerful bird prints, guaranteed to brighten any day.

Leave a comment