Green-crowned Woodnymph ~ "Fluttering Sparks" ~ Watercolor
From the Collection Fluttering Sparks
This green-crowned woodnymph watercolor captures a tropical hummingbird that looks like it was dipped in liquid emerald. Green-crowned woodnymphs are found in Central and South American forests, where they hover at flowers with a precision that defies physics. The male's plumage — deep green crown, violet-blue belly, iridescent green throat — contains more color per square inch than almost any other bird I've painted.
I worked freehand on archival cotton rag paper with Kissho Gansai pigments from Kyoto. The iridescent greens and blues were built through layered wet-on-wet mineral pigment washes, each pass intensifying the color's depth and luminosity. Painting iridescence means understanding that the color isn't fixed — it shifts with the light, and the painting needs to suggest that movement.
Green-crowned woodnymphs inhabit the understory of Central and South American forests, where they hover at tropical flowers with a precision that makes hummingbird flight seem almost mechanical in its perfection. The iridescent greens and violet-blues of the male's plumage shift constantly with angle and light. The only piece in my Fluttering Sparks collection — a tropical departure from my North American subjects. One of a kind. Free shipping, complimentary insurance, and certificate of authenticity included. Framing options available.
Materials: Each watercolor original is unique, the only one of its kind. Created on 300lb Arches Watercolor Paper with Japanese Sumi-é watercolor paint designed to last a lifetime.
Framing: Each piece is elegantly presented with light grey matting in a handmade wooden frame with a grey-washed finish. UV plexiglass and archival materials ensure long-lasting preservation. Crafted with care, our frames are 1.5" deep and handcrafted from solid wood by our trusted local framer.
Additional questions? Please see the FAQ
Cost: Shipping is FREE for all original works up to approx. 30x40". For large artwork, we cover the first $500 in shipping costs; please email us your zip code for a quote.
Packaging: All originals are shipped flat (not rolled). For work larger than 30x40", though our boxes are plastic-reinforced, you have a choice of wood crating to ensure safe transport for an additional fee.
Schedule: Unframed work ships within 1-2 weeks, while framed pieces require 2-3 weeks for delivery. Crated and oversized works may take 4-6 weeks. If your order is time-sensitive, please leave us a note during checkout and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
International: For international shipping, please contact us directly before ordering. Provide the items you are interested in and your shipping address so we can estimate the cost and any constraints.
Insurance: We provide complimentary shipping insurance for all orders. In the event that your item arrives damaged, please document it with pictures and notify us immediately so we can initiate a claim on your behalf.
My Process
The Brushes
High-quality squirrel hair watercolor brushes allow for fluid washes and intricate details, essential to my process.
The Paint
Vibrant Gansai Tambi Japanese watercolors bring my avian portraits to life with their luminous, expressive hues.
The Technique
I fuse classical precision with the spontaneity of sumi-é to craft portraits that vibrate with life.