Pastel on Pastelmat paper (fully framed)

 Image size dimensions 32 X 64cm   

Recently I did something I usually don't do. I went out into nature with a very specific goal in mind and the arrogance to imagine that nature would supply me with the experience I had fixed so firmly in my head.....and that was to gather material with a flock of crested terns resting on a beach I thought I knew well. Now as you may already have guessed on that particular day there wasn't a single crested tern anywhere to be seen where there is usually a large flock. So, I ate some humble pie and looked a little more carefully ...... in the process becoming aware of the pied oystercatchers who had been racing up and down the tideline in plain sight. Once they had my attention, I could not help but be moved to enjoy their speedy antics. The end result is not crested terns but I have to say I am glad they were not there so that nature could draw my attention to something completely different.....and at the same time give me a much needed lesson in observing what is constantly before our eyes but often goes unremarked. Enjoy the now....it truly is the only moment we ever get to experience. At the same time, I was prompted to remember the astounding fact that says no two waves that run up onto the beach are every exactly the same. At an atomic level they are all unique. ....and if that fact doesn't stop you in your tracks, then I don't know what would nature sure is special.

If you would like to learn more about what you personally can do to help our native birds visit the link on my website to BirdLife Australia https://birdlife.org.au/