“A Corner of White”
D. Prentice
A Corner of White 2023
Watercolour on 6o0 gsm Hahnenmhule paper,
Daniel Smith and Holbein professional watercolor paints
14(W) x 19 (H) cm (paper size)
38 (W) x 48 (H) Framed
Available $330
(Greeting cards of this beautiful watercolour available in store)
Magpies are incredible birds.
They can remember up to 50 different faces, and apparently live for up to 30 years in the wild. They are devoted parents and mate for life. If you threaten a magpie, know that it will remember that (and you) for a long time. Likewise, show it kindness and come swooping season, you may just find yourself immune to any threats.
This portrait is of the female Black-backed magpie that lives around our property. She lost an eye in the magpie wars of 2017, and in 2023 had a broken toe. In hard times like these, or in drouught she will come in and quite literally ‘sing for her supper’ and for that of her children. We don’t feed her always, just when she tells us she is in particular need.
When we came back home after 2 years away, she flew straight to me and proceeded to follow me around the yard for 45 minutes singing. It is nice to have that sort of welcome home.
My hope is that she helps her new owners feel that welcome every time they return home.
(‘A Corner of White is also a book by Jaclyn Moriarty is an absolute favorite in our house. Supposedly Teen Fiction, it solidly remains a favorite of mine. Seriously, what artist could resist a story set in a world where it rains colours)?