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This painting depicts a juvenile Greater Spotted Cuckoo sheltered among the protective thorns of an acacia tree on the Serengeti plains. I began with an abstract expression of heat and harshness, allowing the composition to evolve naturally until the bird emerged unexpectedly from the canvas. Through research and sketching, I learned that Greater Spotted Cuckoos often inhabit dry, thorny landscapes across sub-Saharan Africa. The dramatic scale of the acacia’s spines compared with the relatively small bird became a powerful visual metaphor for resilience. The painting reflects the ability of wildlife to survive—and even thrive—within demanding environments, reminding us that strength often emerges in places where conditions appear least forgiving.
