New Owl Painting

This is my latest painting - "Barn Owl on a Snowy Branch" painted with acrylics on an approximate 8x10-inch wooden plaque. I painted this for a niece of mine, who loves animals as I do and collects owls. This is the second owl I've painted, and I seem drawn to them lately (yes, I know they're everywhere this year, especially this fall decorating!) I've decided to do a whole series of owls. 

 

This is the first one I painted. It's quite a bit more "whimsical" than the barn owl.

 

 

 These mysterious creatures have represented many things in myths and legends. Everything from wisdom and protectors and bringers of prophecy, to omens of death, depending on the culture and the time in history. The Native American Hopi Tribe believed owls to be sacred, and the Burrowing Owl was a protector of all the plants and things that grow on the earth.  In parts of England, it's considered good luck to see an owl. Over the years, there have been lots of superstitions surrounding the birds, but since the beginning of the 20th century, owls have mostly become a symbol of wisdom.

 

"A wise old owl lived in an oak
The more he saw the less he spoke
The less he spoke the more he heard.
Why can't we all be like that wise old bird?"

 

 

For me - I just think they're beautiful creatures and make fascinating subjects to paint!

 

I hope everyone is having a good weekend so far. It's a rainy, cool, very fall-like day in northwest Ohio. I sure wish I had a fireplace on days like this! Candles will have to do. :)

 

Until next time,

Cindy

 

Linking to:

Show and Tell Friday at My Romantic Home

  Seasonal Sundays at The Tablescaper

and

Paint Party Friday