Black Grouse

One of a series of works made for an exhibition at Cafe Calluna in Pitlochry. The theme was related to the name of the cafe, Calluna being the latin name for heather. All the works depict animals that have an ecological connection to heather. Black Grounse feed on heather

The aim of this series was to have the feel of an old Victorian, naturalist’s notebook so I included tea stained papers with scientific diagrams and dress pattern paper tissue (because of its antique-y colour and technical lines). Note that the black lines around the birds have been ‘drawn’ with a sewing machine.

Unlike the Ptarmigan, the Black Grouse doesn’t change to white plumage in the winter. The white bird in this piece is intended to be a sketch.  Sadly these glorious birds are on the red list as their numbers are declining fast.

Note: side view of another, similar piece, with identical frame.

Ready to hang. Float mounted in a hand-finished box frame.