Tree Time Tales And Some Starlight Birds

Waiting for moths to hatch or emerge can get a little like waiting for paint to dry really. The other morning though when I wasn't looking, one appeared. I let it out of the jar and it flew to the window pane where I was able to get a picture.It then flew to the holly tree, so I wished it well on it's journey. Now there are only two chrysalis left.

If you love moths like myself, click here for an  interesting programme that I enjoyed the other day.
I finished another tree inspired painting. Remember the sketch in my last blog post...

                                                                 The Blackthorn King

Both paintings, the one in my last post and this one I have done for 'Tree Time Tales' the theme of this years Cheltenham Illustration Awards which a talented artist friend of mine (whom I so wish would get a blog!) recommended I should give a go.
The painting 'Advice from A Tree' is based on the poem by the same name by Ilan Shamir. I think I have shared this poem on here before, but here it is again anyway.
                                                                 Advice from a Tree

Dear Friend,
Stand Tall and Proud
Sink your roots deeply into the Earth
Reflect the light of a greater source
Think long term
Go out on a limb
Remember your place among all living beings
Embrace with joy the changing seasons
For each yields its own abundance
The Energy and Birth of Spring
The Growth and Contentment of Summer
The Wisdom to let go of leaves in the Fall
The Rest and Quiet Renewal of Winter
Feel the wind and the sun
And delight in their presence
Look up at the moon that shines down upon you
And the mystery of the stars at night.
Seek nourishment from the good things in life
Simple pleasures
Earth, fresh air, light
Be content with your natural beauty
Drink plenty of water
Let your limbs sway and dance in the breezes
Be flexible
Remember your roots
Enjoy the view!
                                                                     By Ilan Shamir
                                                                 
The painting 'The Black Thorn King' is based around the story of the Erl King. but I also included a thread of an enviromental theme running through it, so it has a double meaning. In the picture he has been defeated. The rider has escaped. He will always be Autumn. (Cut down and will never see spring again.) I have turned the tables so to speak and the Erl king/tree king has become the victim. A slight similarity to Angela Carter's version. in her book The Bloody Chamber which is a dark magical  read  and full of wonderful imagery.
A while ago I shared a song by Josh Ritter on one of my older posts that I love that is also based on The Erlking. The story has been changed to Oak tree King in the song. Take another look here it really is a beautiful song.
 I shall leave you with some Starlight birds, soon to spread their wings to my Etsy shop.

Did anyone catch a glimpse of the full moon last night? I was told it was A 'Hare Moon' but sadly was cloudy here.