Plover Art
Against the Odds.
Introducing my acrylic painting 'Against the Odds'. This stunning artwork captures a family of hooded plovers, inspired by several reference photographs taken by Craig Greer.
These shorebirds are unfortunately threatened by habitat destruction, so it is especially important to see family groups like the one depicted in this painting.
I am thrilled to share that 'Against the Odds' was shortlisted for the West Torrens Art Prize in 2021. This recognition speaks to the importance of highlighting the beauty and fragility of our natural world through art.
Through the use of multiple layers of acrylic paint, I have created a realistic and detailed portrayal of these beloved birds, and I hope this painting inspires a greater appreciation for these creatures and their habitat.
The Details.
Title: ‘Against the Odds’
Materials: Acrylic paint on wooden artist panel.
Size: Painting alone is 50.5 X 40.5cm X 1.8cm
Created in Adelaide, South Australia in 2021
Price: $1550 + Shipping
ORIGINAL AND LIMITED EDITION PRINTS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE - For enquiries please email me katemarielewisart@gmail.com
Hooded Plover Composition
In my painting ‘Against The Odds’ I have depicted a family group of hooded plovers. Two parents and a fledgling. The chick appears snuggled into the feathers of a parent bird. In their early life, hooded plovers are unable to adequately regulate their temperature without some cuddly help from mum and dad. I wanted this sweet family scene to convey a message of hope.
Hooded Plovers are a Threatened Australian Bird
Of all birds that nest on Australian beaches, hooded plovers are the most threatened. They are a uniquely Australian shorebird that requires specific beach conditions in order to breed. It is estimated that there are less than 100 hooded plovers remaining in Adelaide and the Fleurieu Peninsula, although hope is not lost. West Beach is one of the few locations in Adelaide that provide the appropriate habitat for breeding baby hoodies.
Message of Hope
Despite the dire situation, there is still reason for optimism. My hooded plover painting ‘Against The Odds’ is a picture of the resilience of nature. In particular the resilience of the West Beach hooded plovers in the face of what may seem like overwhelming odds. This may be seen as symbolic of how people of the City of West Torrens have reacted in the face of the global pandemic.
Hooded Plover Conservation
In West Beach conservation volunteers are working hard to make sure the hooded plover population has the opportunity to recover. I often see these efforts when I walk along the West Beach shoreline in the City of West Torrens. Since hooded plovers nest between the dunes and the high tide mark in summer, the signs and designated protected areas are so important. They prevent people and their pets from inadvertently disturbing breeding hoodies.
Painting Techniques
In the execution of this artwork I used highly detailed brush strokes to display the texture of the hoodie’s fluffy feathers. I wanted to give the viewer a close up view of a breeding family of hooded plovers that would rarely be evident with the naked eye. It is a glimpse into their small shoreside world.
