Bird brain
Who’s the Bird brain?
Original painting and poem by Kieran Gonsalves (c) 2025, a nod to the scientific study that slowed birdsongs to 1/10th or 1/20th speed, resulting in humans realising that “simple bird chirp” is in fact a rich sequence of notes, trills, and microtones imperceptible to the human ear. Marvels of creation!
Loose painting of a bird after a drink of water
Staying hydrated before the day becomes hotter
Its senses attuned to the slightest sign of danger
A sneaky cat hiding in the thicket, a game changer
Their keen eyesight distinguishes ultraviolet light
Distinguishing more colours than the human eye sight
Its ears tell pitch differences far beyond our hearing
Tiny brains process complex songs - advanced engineering
Before you demean it, saying 'bird-brained,' think again.
This marvel of creation is quite the master of its domain.
Comments
1. One art a day started off a year ago when I had no idea what painting was all about. I only knew that my limited exposure to art in standard 7 was terrible (sounds familiar, right?)
2. But this time around I started with good materials (paper, paints and brushes - this is the #1 advice I have for anyone, don’t shortchange yourself using inferior materials)
3. I do it for fun, with no ambitions or lofty goals other than to have fun. I paint subjects that resonate with me (I’ve long been interested in nature, birding, science, history etc)
4. Lastly be consistent. Don’t get too high or too low. Within about 2 weeks, I discovered my own unique style of painting that came naturally
5. Practice makes perfect, so each day I start with a blank sheet of paper and try a new painting technique using a reference painting/photo that appeals to me. I however put my own interpretation on it. Copying something has never motivated me
6. I usually take about 20-30 minutes start to finish. The artwork is my prime focus and I love to inject movement
7. The poetry thing started much later and again once I got over my inhibitions I simply let the words flow. I do fact check my information but I knew for example about the amazing story of calculating the earth’s circumference using a shadow so the punchline of poem was a no brainer. That I had read 45 years ago, I had to look up the details. The meter and rhyming is my natural style.
8. I encourage everyone to look beyond their doubts, inhibitions etc and try any form of creative arts (writing, poetry, doodling, sketching, painting, sculpture, cross-stitch, embroidery … the list goes on) - you’ll find something that give you joy. Then there’s nothing stopping you. - Kieran Gonsalves
It also means I don’t do large artwork but keep it simple.
It’s an artistic choice that suits my temperament and schedule
It’s important for each one to do something that comes naturally - Kieran Gonsalves