I have to stop thinking….

I was wondering if I could incorporate a Pennsylvania bird into the surreal image. Ravens are Pennsylvania birds, but what about a barred owl? So I added it and it looks so cute. The owl is probably a bit too light, but does make the image different. It’s certainly unexpected.

Here’s the original with the raven.

Then I wondered if a combo Raven and owl would work. Is that surreal or just weird? I do like her eye looking down at the bird.

So I need your thoughts. Please weigh in. The choices are raven, owl, or combo bird. Or maybe a completely different bird.

Here’s the show advertisement. 

For the owl.

Unspoken 

As I worked on this surreal image it became a portrait of home.

A Pennsylvania white oak rooted in dark water and a barred owl keeping watch.

She is rooted here, holding what can no longer stay buried.

It doesn't come out as words.

It breaks through the surface as light.

For the raven

Unspoken

I started out just trying to make a surreal image. It turned into something more personal — a reflection on isolation and what it feels like to hold things inside for too long.

The moon feels distant. The raven is simply present. She remains rooted in the dark water, carrying something that can no longer stay buried.

It doesn’t come out as words.

It breaks through the surface as light.

Thanks for reading. 

Chris