Still, Life (Bluefaced Honeyeater)

Still, Life. Painting of a bluefaced honeyeater by Kirstie Page.

I’ve had the pleasure of connecting with Len Joynson, who is a very talented ceramicist, originally from Sydney now living in Brisbane. When I saw this particular vessel that he’d created I just knew that I had to expand my artistic repertoire to include it in one of my paintings.

When I considered how to present the vase in a way that was still true to my style and aesthetic I decided to feature the blue-faced honey eater because I’ve been watching them in the trees surrounding my house lately. So I guess it’s partly familiarity.

However what I have also noticed is the way they will sit still for a moment before taking action. They don’t seem to feel the need to be constantly moving like I see some other species of birds. That said, if they see an opportunity, they will take it! I like this balance of action and rest. Seems quite a nice way to approach life.

The butterfly is there both for practical reasons (potentially dinner?) but also because butterflies represent transformation, change hope and most importantly, life. The yellow patterned background was chosen to represent joy (the colour) as well as representing good luck.

May you look at this artwork and feel the joy that life brings with it, both in those moments of action as well as in stillness.

About Kirstie Page

Kirstie Page is an Australian mixed media and enamel artist, classically trained musician and former dementia traine. Kirstie creates beautifully uplifting artworks that incorporate her understanding of science and symbolism to bring comfort and joy to people. Kirstie’s work has been featured in numerous galleries around Australia and her work is held widely in private collections around the world.

A community minded person, Kirstie is also an active member of The Gap Creative, an artists’ collective located in The Gap, Brisbane.