Category: Birds

Quilled Collaged Pink Flamingo

Quilled Collaged Pink Flamingo

Just before Christmas I finished off this stunning hybrid quilled collaged pink flamingo. It was a spur of the moment project that I actually started because an old friend of mine had expressed how much she loved flamingos and I (at the time) had planned…

Rising From the Ashes: Phoenix Part Three

Rising From the Ashes: Phoenix Part Three

As a quilled paper artist, my journey into this captivating art form has been filled with challenges and triumphs. Among my creations, the phoenix holds a special place in my heart. It is a symbol of transformation and rebirth, which resonates deeply with me. Today,…

Team Spirit : The Quilled Baltimore Oriole’s Mascot

Team Spirit : The Quilled Baltimore Oriole’s Mascot

As an artist, one of the joys of my craft is bringing characters and mascots to life through the intricate art of quilling. Recently, I had the exciting opportunity to create a quilled Baltimore Oriole’s Mascot. Mascots hold a special place in the hearts of fans, and translating their vibrant personalities into quilled form is a challenge I’m always eager to accept.

Mascots: A Perfect Fit for Quilling

Mascots are more than just symbols; they’re embodiments of team spirit, camaraderie, and shared passion. As an artist specializing in quilled paper art, creating mascot portraits is a delightful venture that allows me to combine my love for intricate design with my appreciation for sports and fandom. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working on various mascot commissions, each presenting a unique opportunity to breathe life into beloved characters through carefully crafted paper shapes.

A Coloring Book in 3D

One of the remarkable aspects of creating quilled mascot portraits is the feeling of bringing a pre-designed character to life in three dimensions. Much like a coloring book waiting to be filled in, mascots provide a detailed framework ready to be transformed into a stunning quilled masterpiece. The process of selecting and arranging the quilled shapes is akin to coloring within the lines, but with the added dimension of depth and texture. For the quilled Baltimore Oriole’s Logo I chose to use very simple fill-type so as to not make the piece look too busy. I used cross-hatched edge strips in the brim of the hate and scrollwork in the black part. The rest of the piece I left open to the colored background for a clean look and feel.

Other mascots I’ve created over the years include an Illinois Redbird, a Phoenix for a gym logo, and the Targaryen Sigil.

See more Logos.

Work-in-Progress Images

Final Image

A Quilled Portrait of Cardinal Love

A Quilled Portrait of Cardinal Love

I call this piece “A Quilled Portrait of Cardinal Love.” Nestled on a berry bush, facing each other with a silent conversation, this artwork became a celebration of nature’s artistry and my own passion for bringing it to life through paper. Introducing the Cardinals: A…

Crafting the Illinois State Redbird Logo

Crafting the Illinois State Redbird Logo

Creating quilled art is my passion, and over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to bring various logos to life through intricate paper coils. Interestingly, a common theme emerged – birds. From the Baltimore Oriole’s mascot to a flaming Phoenix logo, and now, the Illinois…

The Quilled Baltimore Oriole

The Quilled Baltimore Oriole

In the world of quilled artwork, there exists a unique blend of artistry and nature—a space where vibrant hues and delicate forms come together to capture the essence of the wild. Today, I’m thrilled to introduce you to a recent piece of my paper quilled creations—an exquisite male Baltimore oriole brought to life using a photograph I had the privilege of taking. This artwork holds a special place in my creative journey, representing a time of exploration, a touch of sorrow, and the beauty that emerges from embracing both. Join me as I share the tale behind this quilled oriole—a tribute to avian magnificence, a testament to the power of simplicity, and a preview of artistic tutorials to come.

A Glimpse of Nature’s Majesty: The Inspirational Photograph

The spark that ignites a piece of art often comes from a single moment—a snapshot in time that captures the essence of beauty. For me, that moment was a photograph of a male Baltimore oriole—an avian marvel with its bold orange and black plumage. This photograph became my muse, an invitation to translate the intricate details and vibrant hues into the delicate medium of paper quilling. Little did I know that this endeavor would mark the beginning of a trio of avian creations that would hold significance far beyond their colorful exterior.

Simplicity in Technique: A Trio of Avian Wonders

The creation of the quilled Baltimore oriole was part of a trio of birds, each crafted using the same simple “open” quilling techniques. These techniques, while seemingly straightforward, hold the power to capture the essence of the subject with remarkable accuracy. With each twist and curve of the paper, I sought to replicate the grace, the movement, and the intricate details that define these creatures in the wild. The oriole, with its vibrant colors and distinct features, proved to be a delightful challenge—one that allowed me to explore the nuances of my chosen medium and celebrate the beauty of nature.

A Bittersweet Prelude: Artistry Before the Grief Sabbatical

As I embarked on the creation of the quilled oriole and its avian companions, a shadow loomed—a harbinger of the bittersweet times that lay ahead. These creations emerged in December of 2017, a short while before I would embark on a two-year-long grief sabbatical. Amidst the artistry and creativity, I grappled with the waves of sorrow that often accompany profound loss. Yet, in the midst of this emotional turmoil, I found solace in the act of creation—a reminder that even in the darkest of times, art has the power to heal and transcend.

From Creation to Tutorial: Sharing the Craft

One of the joys of being an artist is the ability to share the creative process and techniques with others who share a passion for the craft. The quilled oriole, with its intricate details and vivid colors, holds the promise of becoming a tutorial—a guide that enables fellow artists to embark on their own journey of creation. The SVG for the oriole, available on my Etsy shop, serves as a bridge between my artistic expression and the hands of others eager to explore quilling’s beauty. This tutorial is a way of passing on the knowledge, igniting the spark of creativity, and fostering a sense of community among artists.

Preview of Tutorials to Come: Artistry in Progress

As the quilled oriole paves the way for future tutorials, it offers a glimpse into the artistry that awaits. While the focus is on the intricate forms of avian wonders, the underlying message goes beyond technique—it’s a celebration of the artist’s spirit, the beauty of nature, and the power of creation to bridge gaps and ignite connections. In the months to come, artists and enthusiasts can look forward to exploring the art of quilled birds, guided by tutorials that open doors to creativity and offer a tangible connection to the natural world.

Conclusion: Embracing Simplicity and Sharing Beauty

As I conclude this journey into the world of the quilled Baltimore oriole, I’m reminded of the beauty that emerges from embracing simplicity and finding solace in creativity. This artwork, born from the inspiration of a photograph and nurtured by the hands of an artist, encapsulates the essence of the avian world. From vibrant plumage to delicate curves, the oriole represents the harmony that can be found between nature and art. And as the journey continues, with tutorials on the horizon, I’m excited to share the craft, pass on the techniques, and invite fellow artists to create their own interpretations of the wonders that grace our skies.

Quilled Baltimore Oriole
Quilled Baltimore Oriole
Paper Quilled Blue Jay

Paper Quilled Blue Jay

In the realm of art, there exists a sacred space where emotions intertwine with creativity, where heartache can find solace in the strokes of a brush or, in my case, the coils of paper. Today, I unveil a piece of my artwork—a vibrant paper quilled…

Quilled Northern Cardinal with Holly

Quilled Northern Cardinal with Holly

Greetings, fellow art enthusiasts! Today, I’m excited to unveil a recent addition to my paper quilling repertoire—a delicate portrayal of a Northern Cardinal. In the world of intricate designs and elaborate techniques, this piece is a testament to the beauty that can be found in…

The Second Quilled Phoenix: A Fiery Masterpiece

The Second Quilled Phoenix: A Fiery Masterpiece

Hello, fellow art lovers! I’m thrilled to share with you a recent addition to my quilled art collection—a magnificent quilled flaming phoenix. This remarkable piece holds a special place in my heart as it marks my second attempt at capturing the awe-inspiring spirit of the mythical phoenix. With its intricate design and fiery beauty, this artwork has become one of my most sought-after creations, though its popularity has brought both admiration and challenges.

Unleashing the Phoenix: Igniting Creativity

The concept of the phoenix—a mythical bird that rises from its own ashes—has always fascinated me. The symbolism of rebirth, renewal, and transformation resonates deeply, making it a captivating subject for artistic exploration. My journey into quilling this majestic creature began with a spark of inspiration, driven by a desire to capture its vibrant energy and radiant beauty.

The Complex Dance of Coils: A Long and Worthy Process

Creating a quilled flaming phoenix is no small feat. Its complex design demands attention to detail, precision, and an unwavering commitment to the craft. Every individual coil is meticulously shaped, positioned, and layered to mimic the intricate feathers and fiery plumage of the mythical bird. The process is a labor of love—a delicate dance of colors and shapes that gradually come together to breathe life into the artwork.

This particular design has garnered significant attention from admirers and fellow quillers alike. Many have approached me with requests for a tutorial, hoping to learn the secrets behind its creation. While I’m flattered by the interest, I must admit that transforming this intricate design into a comprehensive tutorial would be an undertaking of epic proportions. The complexity and depth of the process make it a journey that would require months of dedication.

From Inspiration to Imitation: A Bittersweet Reality

As an artist, one of the highest compliments is when your work resonates with others and inspires them to create. However, with the popularity of the quilled flaming phoenix, a bittersweet reality has emerged—I’ve encountered instances of imitation and even outright theft. It’s both astounding and disheartening to see my painstakingly crafted design being copied and sold without proper credit or permission.

The issue reached an unfortunate peak when I discovered that my design had been stolen and sold on a platform as prominent as Amazon. It’s a reminder that the digital age, while offering incredible opportunities for artistic expression, also presents challenges in protecting one’s intellectual property. While I’m grateful for the opportunity to inspire others, it’s a stark reminder of the importance of respecting and acknowledging the original artist’s work.

Navigating the Complex Journey: Lessons Learned

Despite the challenges that come with the popularity of the quilled flaming phoenix, I’ve learned invaluable lessons along the way. The journey has reinforced the significance of authenticity, both as an artist and as a creative individual. It’s a reminder that the true essence of art lies in the process—the countless hours of dedication, the exploration of techniques, and the personal connection to each piece.

As I continue to navigate the evolving landscape of art in the digital age, I’m reminded of the importance of advocating for artists’ rights and safeguarding their creative expressions. While imitation may be a form of flattery, it’s essential to ensure that proper credit and recognition are given to the original creators.

A Flaming Legacy: Inspiring Transformation

The quilled flaming phoenix serves as a testament to the transformative power of art. Beyond the intricate coils and vibrant hues lies a representation of resilience, rebirth, and the enduring spirit of creativity. It’s a reminder that art has the ability to evoke emotions, inspire change, and ignite conversations.

So, to fellow artists, admirers, and seekers of inspiration, I encourage you to embrace the uniqueness of your creative journey. Let the challenges and triumphs fuel your passion, and let your creations be a reflection of your authentic self. And to those who have found inspiration in my quilled flaming phoenix, I’m deeply grateful for your support and appreciation.

Let this piece stand as a tribute to the flame of creativity that burns within each of us, and may it remind us all of the incredible potential that art holds to shape and transform the world around us.

From Splash to Rooster: Embracing the Unexpected in Quilled Art

From Splash to Rooster: Embracing the Unexpected in Quilled Art

In the world of art, there’s a certain thrill that comes from letting creativity take the lead, guiding us down unexpected paths and revealing surprises along the way. Recently, I embarked on a quilling project that perfectly embodies this sense of artistic spontaneity—an abstract creation…