This painting started as a portrait study and ended up being one of my favorite color explorations I've done! I was really into Rain World at the time and fell in love with its muted and moody color palette. The game's abandoned industrial landscapes and thriving ecosystems had me thinking about the complex lives we create and how we compete with a simpler and enduring nature. Stepping away from the grand expectations of civilization and connecting with wildlife can inspire a much calmer and content lifestyle. We have a lot to learn from animals.

Another reason I like this painting is because I just love how the bird is looking at his own reflection in the helmet. It's such a cute visual. Birds can be so silly.