A Quiet Comfort – SOLD

“A Quiet Comfort” (Red Tailed Black Cockatoos) Original Acrylic on Linen 55cm x 80cm – SOLD

Stephen’s Inspiration: “My motivation for this artwork was to create a story with the subject being a beautiful pair of iconic Australian Red Tail Black Cockatoos. A tall sanctuary like a gum tree is ideal for black cockatoos as they provide a safe, far-reaching outlook where flocks can rest and watch for out for approaching predators. Placing them up high in a quiet setting, they were a single shadow. There were no calls to the flock or cries for food; there was only the steady, mutual care of a quiet comforting bond meant to last decades. As they rested, they communicated in soft, rhythmic “chatting” calls, a stark contrast to their usual raucous, wailing cries that can be heard from kilometres away. This behaviour, often observed by researchers and enthusiasts is essential for maintaining the pair’s social connection, especially as they prepare for the upcoming nesting season. Their strong lifelong bond serves as a spiritual reminder of the importance of partnerships, community safety, and mutual support. The male, distinguished by his solid, ink-black feathers and vibrant red tail panels, sat close to his mate. She looked quite different, her plumage peppered with fine yellow spots on her head and her tail marked by intricate bars of pale orange and yellow”.

Original painting by Stephen Bennett