Portraiture is the recording of an individual's appearance and personality and what makes it so magical is the artist's ability to capture the psychological characteristics of a figure. I have never considered myself a “wildlife” painter but, rather, a portrait artist. Whether I'm rendering the features of a raven, a wolf, an owl or a human, I am exploring the story and expressions of the subject matter.
There is something peaceful and gratifying about the power of observation, the viewing contemplation of eyes, fine feathers, fur patterns, the nuance of strength, the presence of emotion, the heart that trembles within a portrait. A portrait invites us to stand alone in front of it, to connect poetically and viscerally with it and to search within ourselves to find the very similar elements that we observe within its face.
Does the owl sit quietly, overlooking the Old Forest? Does it inspire us to do the same – to quieten the mind and steady the body, to observe our own story within?
Does the Raven look up to the sky with a deep gaze to inspire us to do the same? Look up and open ourselves to possibilities, to observe our surroundings?
Does the Wolf look forward into the distance, hanging its head slightly to catch the wind in its nose, to observe what lies ahead? Danger or Safety? Should we also peer ahead, to observe the path forward?
Does the Hawk look over its shoulder to see the past? Is it time to reflect on our activities and choices? Deep in the eyes of the Hawk is there a message to observe ourselves with a higher level of truth?
The Lilac Moon casts its shade of purples onto the Raven, the Old Forest is guarded by the Owl Mother and white wolves come to us in our dreams, delivering a message. My Heart is a Feather. Light, strong and tender and it can easily blow away in the wind.

- Leah Pipe