Secret Story: The Lookout

‘The Lookout’. Fairy Wren, mixed media by Kirstie Page

I have such a soft spot for fairy wrens. Not only are they beautiful, they remind me of my mum who adored them. It seemed appropriate to paint one. Prior to painting, I completed some research. I made an amusing discovery: what they lack in size, they make up for in bravado.

It turns out that when a predator is nearby, the male fairy wrens don't fly away and hide. No, sir! Instead they stand their ground and start singing. Loudly. Not "La-la-la, if I can't see you, you can't see me". More like a symphonic blockbuster. Why? Because they use it to attract the ladies. Turns out the females like a display of bravery... (I'm looking at you, eyebrows raised.)

To incorporate this amusing aspect into my painting, I posed my fairy-wren looking out for danger. To avoid or attract? I'm not sure, but I've heard he's single. Rich colours represent energy, lust and danger.

Finally, I included some grevillea flowers with my fairy wren. These represent true love for my birdy lothario as well as calm - needed when under pressure. Because let's face it, any bird who faces danger like that needs all the help they can get.

About Kirstie Page

Kirstie Page is an Australian mixed media artist, classically trained musician and former dementia trainer with experience working on the front line in aged care. Kirstie creates beautifully uplifting artworks that incorporate her understanding of science and dementia to provide comfort and joy to people, including those living with dementia and other health conditions.