This painting is done as a mixed media work.  The background was done as an acrylic pour becoming these beautiful abstract shapes that I attempt to resemble aspen leaves.  After the background is dry I position the bird/birds into a pleasing composition within the piece.  The bird is done in oils which allows a thin, transparent layer to be put over the background.  This application allows for some of the background to show through mirroring the abstract effect throughout the work.