As a kid, my parents helped me to create a “bird sanctuary” outside my bedroom window. Not satisfied with simply watching birds from the feeders, I would open my window and place bird seed on my art desk. It didn’t take long and birds were landing there, allowing me to study and draw them just inches away. They now had my complete attention. I didn’t just “see” a bird in front of me. I could now see the stiff tail feathers, with the shafts splitting each feather to equal parts. The wings, too, contained rigid feathers, but the shafts were off-centered. I could now see the softer contour feathers covering its body. Even the softest down feathers were occasionally seen as the bird preened or fluffed up a bit. I also quickly noticed personality and expression in individual birds. By taking the time to look at the intricate details, aspects of my life were changed. This is what I strive to achieve in my art.