The Oriental Darter

W 23cm x H 30.5cm – This is “The Oriental Darter” — The bird is instantly recognisable by its long snake-like neck, straight dagger-like beak and a habit of swimming with only its head visible above the water. Unlike other birds, their feathers are not waterproof. Using subtle blending and controlled brushwork, I let the dark silhouette read against a soft sky so the composition conveys quiet motion and solitude.