Original Artwork

'A Chaffinch Rising' by Michelle Morris

Serenity, a whispering tree

Of blossoms swaying gently

Symbols of hope, where birds elope

Tranquillity amongst the grasses

A chaffinch rising, vocalising

The beginning of the day

Reeds stand tall, to echo the call

As the chaffinch makes its way

A peaceful place, nature’s space

Where pools and wildlife embrace

Hundreds of flowers now adorn this setting

Bringing us hope without ever forgetting

Poem by Michael Morris

Gouache and acrylgouache on silk paper using Chinese and Japanese brushes

Mounted on canvas panel

Embellished with hand-applied 24 carat Italian Manetti gold leaf

Hand-signed, hand-stamped

Approximately 101.5cm x 32cm x 3.2cm in black lacquered wood frame

This is one of a series of original artworks, made available for sale for the first time to the public in nearly 20 years.

With its vibrant, elegant feathers and notably beautiful songs, the chaffinch is one of the most loved birds widespread in the UK and Europe. Happy to visit parks and gardens, their cheerful presence and melodic voice make them a true symbol of the British countryside. I found it really fascinating that they are one of the few species to have regional ‘dialects’ as the males learn by copying their neighbours, therefore developing distinct song patterns… how clever!

Symbolising joy and reawakening, I have presented these delightful birds recounting their stories from their travels. I celebrate Hope with them as cherry blossoms open to their voices of optimism and renewal, joyfully singing in an orchestral tribute. Highlighting the glowing sun/moon, the shimmering waters, the blades of grass and delicate petals gently falling from the tree with gold leaf, this artwork is Hope in quiet glory, and with it I share with you my hopeful personal journey.

‘A Chaffinch Rising’ was a prayer, to live with the light of loved ones in the fervent hope that one day, not only would they be honoured but how this specific experience in my life is shaping me.