Common Redpoll with Evergreen ~ "Songbirds & Friends" ~ Watercolor

This common redpoll watercolor painting captures a winter finch from the far north. Common redpolls breed in the Arctic and visit the northern United States in irruptive flocks during harsh winters — a treat for birders who may not see them again for years. The red cap, streaked flanks, and tiny stubby bill give them a look that's both rugged and adorable. This painting pairs one with an evergreen branch, emphasizing the bird's association with cold-weather beauty.

I worked freehand on archival cotton rag paper with Kissho Gansai pigments from Kyoto. The crimson forehead and pink-flushed breast were built through delicate wet-on-wet mineral pigment washes, while the brown-streaked body kept the palette earthy and natural. The evergreen needles frame the bird with wintery texture. Common redpolls are Arctic-breeding finches that wander south in unpredictable irruptions — some winters they flood the northern states in thousands, other years they don't appear at all. Their tiny bodies generate heat through constant feeding, visiting seed sources in chattering, restless flocks. The crimson forehead and pink-flushed breast add warmth to their otherwise streaky, brown-toned plumage.

A winter gem from my Songbirds & Friends collection. 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.

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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.

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