Birds are some of the most iconic sources of inspiration for artists of all shapes and forms. Animal-loving creatives (from poets to painters) often turn to these winged creatures for inspiration and aren’t disappointed. Their aesthetic diversity, distinctive silhouettes, and graceful movements make them an ideal muse.
Nicola Henley knows best. Based in the West of Ireland, her art is in constant dialogue with birds, and more specifically—birds in flight. Inspired by the dramatic seas and changing light of the Atlantic coast, as well as the sense of freedom of birds, Henley’s work is representative of the striking contrast between intricate ornithological detail and the vast expanse of surrounding space.
“Birds are often a focal point but within every environment,” she relayed once in an interview with Textile Artist. According to Henley, she seeks out the colour and dynamics in terms of movement within space. “I draw to record what I see but also to try to capture the essence of the place and bird character and movement within a location, bringing out what is important to me,” she notes.
Using a combination of dying, painting with pigments, screen-printing onto cotton calico, and texturing made of hand and machine stitch, her stand-alone pieces make for a striking statement. The end result, rather than being realistic, provides an impression of the movement of birds as they soar high above us.
