art 377 Joan Colvin

The artwork presents a close-up portrait of a large raptor, dominating the vertical composition. The birds head is turned slightly towards the viewer, its gaze intense and focused. A prominent beak, rendered in shades of yellow and orange, adds to the impression of alertness and power. Feathers are meticulously depicted using layered fabric patches, creating a textured surface that simulates the complexity of natural plumage. The white feathers around the face and neck contrast sharply with the darker browns and blacks of the body, emphasizing the bird’s form and structure.
The background is an abstract landscape constructed from similarly textured fabrics in muted grey and green tones. These colors contribute to a sense of depth and suggest a natural environment, though it remains indistinct and serves primarily as a backdrop for the central figure. The artist employed a quilting technique, evident in the visible stitching that holds the fabric pieces together. This method lends a tactile quality to the work, blurring the lines between painting and textile art.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of an animal portrait, the artwork seems to explore themes of strength, freedom, and perhaps even national identity. The raptor’s commanding presence and piercing gaze convey a sense of authority and vigilance. The use of fabric, traditionally associated with domesticity and craft, introduces a layer of complexity, potentially questioning conventional notions of power and representation. The muted color palette and textured surface contribute to an overall feeling of quiet dignity and resilience. It is possible that the artist intended to evoke feelings of respect for nature and its powerful inhabitants.