Wild Things Artwork
by Patsy Lindamood

36"H x 24" W Pastel on Ampersand Pastelbord.

I understand that Cara Cara can be observed at the Viera Wetlands, and a guide has told me where to look for them. My husband and I have never been successful in siting them there. Consequently, I was thrilled to find that the Homosassa State Park has one. I was able to photograph the bird up close, through an enclosure. I particularly like this pose where the bird is looking down, apparently considering whether to stay where he was perched or to hop down to explore something on the ground below.

I was drawn to the deep indigo hues of this bird, and the background of his enclosure in my reference material had a dark hue to it. Strong afternoon sunlight shone through the enclosure, creating a nice contrast to the darkness behind him. I chose to use the indigo for the backdrop to push that contrast to the limit, while still relating closely to the indigo tones of the birds feathers. Attempting to depict his feathers in proper configuration, at the angle at which he perched presented a huge challenge.

Beyond a proper representation of the Cara Cara, I wanted to create the attitude of the bird's demeanor as I experienced it, and the kind of moodiness I sensed from him. The strong contrast lighting and the expansive use of indigo within the environment accomplish that.