I painted a bird. (I’m painting every bird just FYI.) Painting birds is wildly political. Ask my why painting birds is wildly political.

Yesterday I painted three birds. February only let me paint one bird. Last year by this time I had painted 70 birds. Progress is progress whether you’re walking, rolling or wailing.

Just keep going.

Total bird count 301/2268

Additions featured in this video:

Common Myna

LeConte’s thrasher

Bananaquit

#impaintingeverybird #birdart #birdartist #watercolorbirds #birdpainting

3/2 Edited to

... Read morePainting birds as a continuous project is not just an artistic endeavor but a deeply reflective practice that reveals much about perseverance and the subtle messages art can convey. In my experience, committing to painting every bird species has taught me to appreciate the diversity and fragility of avian life. Each brushstroke is an act of observation and respect, bringing to light the importance of wildlife conservation through a unique, personal lens. What struck me most about painting birds is how the act itself becomes political—whether consciously or unconsciously. Birds often symbolize freedom, migration, and environmental health, so capturing them on canvas can serve as a commentary on ecological issues or cultural values. For example, painting species like the Common Myna, often seen as invasive, alongside rarer birds highlights ecological balance and human impact. Tracking progress in this long-term project motivates me when painting slows down, such as this February when I only managed one bird compared to last year's 70 by the same time. Every small step counts, and maintaining consistency—even when creativity ebbs—builds a rewarding archive of color, shape, and story. Using watercolors adds a softness and fluidity to the birds’ portrayal, echoing their delicate existence in nature. I’ve found that experimenting with different techniques not only improves my skills but also keeps the process engaging. Sharing these paintings online, using hashtags like #impaintingeverybird and #birdart, connects me with a community of artists who inspire and challenge me. If you’re thinking of starting your own artistic journey, especially one as ambitious as painting every bird species, remember it’s about the steady pursuit of passion. Keep painting, keep observing, and let your art speak your truth about the natural world.