The Rook

I just had to paint this portrait of a Rook. They are such gregarious, busy birds, always peering into bins or marching across farmland in large groups. This particular bird was hanging around the cafe at a zoo and watching every sandwich and sausage roll that was consumed. My offer of a crust was immediately accepted and afforded a fabulous opportunity to study the brilliant, petrol hues in his plumage. I loved painting the details in his beak, all those scratches and scruffiness of skin and the fluff of silky feathers around the eye. He was a beautiful and fun subject to capture as I recalled his confidence and interest. No aggression at all just a patience in the wait for a snack. I painted him against white on a board measuring 24 x 34 inches and he is quite a presence in a room with his clever eye staring straight out at you!