This painting was a total departure from my normal work. My paintings are often described as happy paintings because of my use of color and subjects. That is the way I want the viewer to feel. I’m a happy person and I want my work to reflect that part of me. This painting was intended to generate a different emotion.  

I have always been intrigued by owls. They are beautiful birds, but their size and predatory nature sets them apart from the cute little birds dancing around our water fountain. When I watch owls, I am always struck by how focused they are and by their enormous wings. In our Arizona home, I’d watch a pair hunt for food every evening.   

I used a restrained palette and a foggy background for this piece.  In doing so, I hope viewers can sense what I felt watching them.