"Flight of the Songbird" is a mixed media abstract realism painting on 18 x 24 inch canvas inspired by my own personal healing journey following emotional and religious trauma and abuse. It is a dance between abstraction and realism, with elements of nature embedded throughout. A general theme of freedom can be drawn from the open wingspan of the songbird as it breaks through the center of the image, unhindered, untethered, singing its song of freedom, as well as from the gold embellishments that appear to flow freely from the canvas. The expressive style brings the painting to life, drawing the viewer in for a glimpse into the story being told.
I began with a marker drawing and an acrylic underpainting. Once dry, I proceeded with layers of oil paint for added depth and richness. My favorite material used in this painting was Schmincke rich gold oil bronze, which adds creamy, luxurious, vibrant gold accents and details. A generous and expressive application gave "Flight of the Songbir