Fairy Wrens and Banksia #1

Original Painting by Kate Soady

This piece focuses on the simple interaction between the bright Superb Blue Fairy-wrens and the structural beauty of green Banksias. I wanted to explore a fresher, more botanical palette for this work, using various shades of green and yellow to reflect the life of the bush in its more lush moments.

The Inspiration Watching these birds navigate through the heavy foliage is a constant source of inspiration for me. In this composition, I’ve positioned the wrens amongst upright, green seed pods and architectural leaves, capturing that sense of movement and curiosity they bring to the garden. The linework is intentional but relaxed, aiming to show the textures of the bush without overcomplicating the scene.

Details

• Size: 65cm x 65cm

• Medium: Acrylic on board, chosen for its ability to hold clean, vibrant layers.

• Framing: Finished in a Tasmanian Oak floating frame, which provides a soft, natural border that lets the greens and blues stand out.

It’s a square-format piece that works well as a standalone focal point or as a companion to other botanical works. My goal was to create something that feels balanced and brings a calm, leafy energy into a living space.