Even the Sparrow Knows

By Paula Basnett in Reidsville, NC.

I have wanted to to a loose and free piece for a while. The opportunity finally arose. The inspiration was a little bird I saw flitting around my feeder.

It was an ordinary sparrow. He didn’t had any spectacular markings. I didn’t notice any spcial habits or movements. My curiosity was sparked. I started researching sparrows. What I found inspired me.

  • · Sparrows are small, but powerful. They prove tha something small can triumph in the huge world.
  • · Sparrows are renowned guardians and protectors. They represent love and keeping a caring eye on their family. 
  • · They symbolize creativity, simplicity, joy, protection, friendliness, community and productivity, innovation, vigilance, favor and integrity.
  • · Another aspect of their symbolism is the derivation of strength from communal involvement and fighting for a common cause.
  • · The ancient Egyptians believed that sparrows caught the souls of the departed and carried them to heaven.
  • · And the familiar song "His Eye is on the Sparrow” conveys being protected and provision.

Sometimes what is considered common and run-of-the-mill holds a surprise. This sparrow represents the discovery of the renarkable in something that might be considered ordinary and in honor of all the “ordinary” sparrows.

Various colors of FolkArt acrylic paint were used on this piece. They were mixed on the brush with Floe Trol Flood to make the opaque acrylics more transparent. I pushed the acrylic paints to their limits on this rocker. The end result it a loose and watercolor feel. Mission accomplished!

Project Category

Upcycling Merit CategoriesThe Show Must Go On

Products Used

  • Valspar Snowcap White - Satin
  • Various FolkArt Acrylic Paints
  • General Finishes Flat Out Flat Acrylic Top Coat
  • Floe Trol Flood Paint Additive

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