Using Resources from Generous Creators

I love seeing Great Blue Herons flying over and around the Delaware River while I commute and standing stoically in the water nearly every time I walk or bike the Delaware and Raritan Canal. They have the most interesting feathers, a characteristic S-curve neck, and an almost prehistoric quality to their overall look.

I’ve been wanting to paint one for a while, and finally carved out a little time to give it shot. However, I couldn’t decide on the right pose. While searching, I discovered Pexels, a site where creators generously share free images downloading. There, I came across a photograph by Robert So that really spoke to me.

I decided to use it as a reference image for the shape and mood of the bird. It was very helpful in deciding how to approach the bird, and I’m very grateful to artists like Robert who make their work available and inspire others in the process. In return, I’d like to share Robert’s super-beautiful work here. Please enjoy.