When I was a kid, I poured over the Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias). I’d spend hours near my house in Ithaca, NY, stalking this bird to get a better look. I was studying the bird, its habits and its behaviors, though I didn’t quite realize what I was doing at the time. I’d also spend hours sketching the bird. It was the first bird I drew, and I drew tirelessly.

Since I was a kid I’ve done a few Great Blue Heron illustrations and started a few paintings, but due to my diversified passion for birdlife I haven’t finished a painting of this subject since I was a kid. Finally, I had the opportunity to do so.

I look at the painting and I see loads to improve upon, but it’s so satisfying to see my illustrations as a child against the painting above. As I do, I reflect on my journey thus far in life and look forward to many more paintings to come.