The hidden gems

As the final day of the Birdsong Christmas online art auction, I thought it would be fun to highlight what I feel are the hidden treasures.  While lots of items are at, or near, their respective values, here are a few to consider scooping up.

CHRIS CORNELL

Chris Cornell's portrait was done on the day that he died.  I was inspired by the grief of a colleague who loved his music and was deeply affected by his suicide.

Initial sales of this limited edition helped change the life of a lovely lady named Mern in rural Cambodia.  One year ago, we were able to gift her a new home and new hope, largely funded by the many people who purchased this print.

MIKE TYSON

I can't tell you how many people have asked about this poster of a watercolour portrait I did of Mike Tyson about 6 years ago.  It has been hanging on the wall of Birdsong Studio during this entire adventure.  It was a precursor in many ways in terms of the style and technique that I use today.  This framed poster print is a piece of Birdsong Studio history that you can have for yourself.  I'm ready to let it go.  It's also the lowest priced item in the auction (so far).

OLD MAN

Even though the bid on this gallery canvas print of Ben's drawing of the old man is $75 over its value, it suggests something very important.  More than a few people have seen an opportunity to support a young artist with incredible potential.  To raise money for his school trip to Scandinavia, Ben (15 years old)  is selling 10 limited edition gallery canvas prints of this drawing.  At the auction's end, there will only be two more left. 

THREE AND TWO

I like all of Heather's abstract paintings, but Three and Two is absolutely the biggest bargain of the whole auction.  It is a 30" x 30" original that would be a brilliant feature piece in a dining or living room, or even a decorative touch to a professional office environment.  If I had wall space and was searching for an abstract piece, I would be jumping all over this one. 

EVERYONE DESERVES TO LOVE AND BE LOVED

This is a painting with a story and packed with meaning.  It was created live at the Centre's of Hope's annual KD Gala in support of the United Way.  I wanted to express the truth that everyone, regardless of their circumstance, longs to love and be love.  These are fundamental human needs.  We don't have any bids on this one yet.  Net proceeds from its sale will be donated to the Centre of Hope to help their efforts with individuals experiencing homelessness. 

DON WILLIAMS

Over the past few years, I have done a series of portraits in the moments of grief when the world came to grips with losing well known celebrities:  Robin Williams, BB King, Merle Haggard, Leonard Cohen, David Bowie and so many others.  This is an original of a celebrity memorial painting of a country music superstar who had the nickname of "The Gentle Giant".  He died on September 8, 2017.  This portrait was completed on September 9, 2017. 

If you want to bid on any of the pieces in the Birdsong Christmas online art auction all you have to do is click here.  Once you place a bid, you will receive an email the moment you get outbid.  Everything comes to a close this evening at 9 pm MST.