My Magpie Family

My paintings to date largely include a magpie or two. I love them.

Since moving to the farm in 2020, we have had daily visits from the family of magpies that have called this place home, for who knows how long. With their song in unison at sun-up, it is the quintessential Australian bush lullaby to help get your day started – albeit rather early.

One magpie in particular, we call her ‘Maggie’, has over the years brought her babies to introduce them to us, to let them know we are kind and part of their extended family. Maggie will eat out of your hand, jump on your lap or head, and engage in eye to eye contact in an inquisitive way.

The last few months, Maggie has started looking a little dishevelled. Her plumage looked dull, her beak covered in dried mango and it appeared her eye-sight may be not as sharp as it once was. A large storm came through our property with high winds ripping through Maggie’s tree – possible she may have been hurt by this storm, it finally took its’ toll on her?

Five nights ago, as the sun was almost down, there was a knocking at the door from the balcony to the kitchen. I looked outside and I saw Maggie walking on the boards. I had this strange feeling she was coming to say goodbye. I went outside to see her. Knowing something was definitely wrong, I went back inside to grab my phone and immediately rang a friend who runs a wildlife sanctuary to ask for advice. The best I could do was try to catch her, secure her for the night and take her to the vet in the morning for assessment. Sadly, by the time I got back there, I saw her struggle onto the balustrade and meekly fly off the edge, to I don’t know where. I couldn’t find her then, and I haven’t seen her since.

I believe the connection we have, as man and woman, with all creatures is real on a soul level. As an artist, I want to bring the personality, the beauty and the stories to life.

Miss you beautiful Maggie.