The Story Behind My Next Collection (and How You Can Follow Along)

If you’ve ever looked at a bird and thought, “What could that little creature be singing about?” — you’re in the right place. My newest art collection takes flight with color, laughter, and memory. Each piece in this whimsical bird series is inspired by one of my past students — not their struggles, but their spark. These aren’t quiet birds. They look like they’re singing three songs at once, bursting with personality, joy, and the kind of spirit that fills a room (or a canvas).

For over twenty years in the classroom, I’ve had the privilege of teaching hundreds of incredible young people. Each one had a spark that I never forgot — a quick laugh, a quirky comment, a way of seeing the world that made my day brighter. Those moments stuck with me, and now, years later, they’re showing up in my art. Every brushstroke, every pattern, every tilt of a painted head carries a whisper of a child who once made me smile. These birds are my way of celebrating them — and of celebrating creativity, resilience, and joy.

This collection is an explosion of color and movement. If you love brightly colored bird art, whimsical wall art, joyful oil paintings, and storytelling through art, this collection was made for you. Each bird feels alive — their feathers layered in unexpected hues, their eyes wide with curiosity. I imagine them perched on a wire, chattering together about life, friendship, and adventure. There’s something magical about capturing a spirit like that — a visual reminder that joy is always nearby if you take a moment to look up.

But this isn’t just an art collection — it’s a story collection. You know I have to have a story with each piece I create. Each painting will come with a short written vignette inspired by the student who sparked it. You’ll meet birds who dream big, birds who daydream, birds who can’t stop talking, and birds who make the whole flock laugh. These stories are fun, lighthearted, and deeply human — written to make you smile, remember, and maybe even see a bit of yourself (or someone you love) in them. This series is meant to remind us all that creativity doesn’t just hang on a wall — it sings, it connects, it invites us to pause and listen.

If you’ve ever wanted to collect art with heart, this is your invitation. You can follow along as the birds come to life on my Instagram and right here on my blog. I’ll be sharing behind-the-scenes videos, color palettes, sketchbook peeks, and the stories that inspired each whimsical feathered friend. Whether you’re a bird lover, an art collector, or simply someone who craves a daily dose of creativity and color, I’d love to have you follow this flight from first sketch to final brushstroke.

So, keep your ear open — you just might hear them singing. These birds are a celebration of joy, art, and the small everyday stories that make life golden. Join me as the flock grows, and maybe you’ll find a bird that feels like it was made just for you. You can subscribe to the blog for collection updates, or follow me on social media for sneak peeks as the colors (and the songs) unfold.