Mountain Ash: Tree of Life
by
Beverley Noseworthy
Hand-painted silk wall hanging
(Fibre reactive dyes on 10 m/m silk twill)
130.9 x 91.5 cm
51.5" x 36"
Beverley Noseworthy
Hand-painted silk wall hanging
(Fibre reactive dyes on 10 m/m silk twill)
130.9 x 91.5 cm
51.5" x 36"
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The mountain ash tree which was the inspiration for this painting was planted in the garden about thirty years ago. It has since provided shelter for many species of birds throughout the year and an ample supply of berries during the fall and early winter. The four seasons are depicted in this wall hanging along with the birds which visit the tree temporarily.
The lower right-hand corner depicts spring with yellow daffodils swaying beneath the grey, rainy sky. Spring marks the return of the robins, purple finch, American goldfinch and the tree swallows which nest in the backyard birdhouses. The mallards, which are shown rummaging in the moss beneath the tree, were once frequent visitors from a pond nearby. Continuing counter-clockwise, we see that by early summer the mountain ash has bright green leaflets and clusters of blossoms. A grackle, sparrow and scarlet tanager rest momentarily while a blue jay and pine siskin fly past. A young tree swallow is fed by a parent as crows peck at the newly-formed berries. In the crisp autumn air a flock of Canada geese fly past the brilliantly coloured leaves and berries. The starling, blue jays and brown-headed cowbird come to feed. The purple finch continue to visit, as does the chickadee. With the arrival of winter a few berries are found by a hungry redpoll and also by a cedar waxwing, which will soon be followed by a large flock. Any berries scattered on the snow-covered ground are promptly discovered by juncos, evening grosbeaks, mourning doves and an occasional snow bunting. Thus, the cycle continues year after year. |
Detail
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