Snowy Owl II ~ "Shadows of the Sky" ~ Pastel

This snowy owl pastel painting is the second in a pair of studies — a companion to my other snowy owl piece in the Shadows of the Sky collection. "Snowy Owl II" explores the bird from a different angle and posture, revealing aspects of plumage and personality that the first study doesn't show. The barring pattern on a snowy owl's feathers is as individual as a fingerprint — no two birds are marked the same way.

I worked in pastel, building the complex white-and-dark plumage through layered dry strokes that create physical texture on the paper's surface. This second study allowed me to push the tonal range further — deeper shadows, more defined barring, a closer view that reveals the structure of individual feathers. The yellow eyes remain the composition's focal point, but the surrounding plumage carries more detail and variation than the first piece.

My Shadows of the Sky collection pairs these two snowy owl pastels with studies of the bald eagle, great grey owl, peregrine falcon, red-tailed hawk, kestrel, and the soaring owls diptych. The snowy owls are the collection's most serene subjects. The barring on a snowy owl's feathers varies with age and sex — younger birds are more heavily marked, while older males become almost pure white. This bird's barring suggests maturity and experience.

One of a kind. Pairs naturally with the first snowy owl study, or stands alone in bedrooms, reading rooms, and contemplative spaces. Framing options available. Free shipping, complimentary insurance, and certificate of authenticity included.

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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