Inspiration: A true Acrobat of the sky, the Osprey has been on my artwork list for some time now! Their ability to dive into waters to catch prey is an amazing sight for sure. Though their diving talents are well known, I can’t help but appreciate the thought, planning and patience that goes behind that one incredible moment. This piece reflects the rather ‘Art’ of hunting and what goes into making that decision from such an intelligent raptor. 

A big thank you to Bill Harris for his Osprey photo as my reference.

Artworks by Maegan Oberhardt highlight many species of wildlife native to Australia. This piece forms part of a collection of artwork that expands environments, composition, and the use of compatible media within the piece. The primary connection within her art is in the technique. It is man-made fire burning paper (which is a by-product of trees). This comments on the conflict between man and nature. The result of that conflict is that most wild species are directly impacted by man’s carbon footprint.

This series has had a foundation of watercolour painted on the sketch to create a more accurate depiction of the subject. In addition, soot was utilised to achieve the variety of charcoal greys present in the finished artwork.