Bird Art

 Original Collages by The Aluminum Nest

If you haven't noticed by know I have thing for birds. I think they are really interesting creatures and I love to observe their behaviors. Since I am a mama bird with two chickadees of my own, I have collected or made many things over the years that have a reference to the aviary kingdom. Nests, eggs, feathers, birdhouses, birdcages and the like are little reminders to me of my faith, motherhood and my children. I wanted to share with you some of my art that I have been working on. These are two small 5x7 canvases that I decoupaged and layered with old penny post cards from the 1900's, stamps, wallpaper scraps and decals to create these little lovelies. The one on the right was inspired by the Serenity Prayer and the one on the left has the word hope a reminder from a favorite verse.

The Serenity Prayer

God grant me the serenity to

accept the things I cannot change,

the courage to change the things I can,

and the wisdom to know the difference.

Psalms 62:5-8

Find rest O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him.

He alone is my rock and salvation; He is my fortress, I will not be shaken...

He is my rock and refuge. Trust Him at all times, O people, pour out your hearts to Him, 

for God is our refuge.

Trailer Treasures

I wanted to share one of my best finds since moving to Florida. I really enjoy going to thrift stores, antique shops, and garage sales. You never know what you will come across and someone else's junk can be a real treasure. I found this 1950 copy of Audubon's Birds of America for $2.00 at an antique shop a few months back. I love the green binding and graphic pattern of feathers on the cover. The illustrations are beautiful and the book has been great reference in identifying birds for the girls and I. On December 6 2010, a first edition copy of Birds of America was sold at a Sotheby's auction for $11.5 million, a record price for a single printed book. My copy does not have the original dust jacket and is worn in places. I found a few online for around $50.00. I am pleased with my discovery and love that I am using it all the time. Here are some shots of my treasure and some of birds that frequent our backyard.

Binding

Front Cover

Title Page

Swallow-Tailed Kite

Sandhill Crane

Ibis

Little Blue Heron

Peepers the Duck

Feeding Peepers Oatmeal

The Bird asks questions

The Bird trying to pet Peepers

Peepers The Duck

 The girls are making friends in the neighborhood quickly. They noticed a little girl down river that likes to kayak and swim and they introduced themselves one day while she was paddling by. The other day she came by boat and she had brought her pet duckling, Peepers. The girls and I so enjoyed their visit. The duck followed them everywhere as they played in the yard.

Friends

Water for Peepers

Jules meets Peepers

Waiting for his "Mom"

Too Cute!

Bird Nest Treats