Messenger is a tribute to the misunderstood and often maligned pigeon, rendered with care and reverence in alcohol ink markers, pen, and colored pencil. At once common and extraordinary, this bird is shown not as a nuisance, but as a symbol of endurance (symbolized by the thistle flowers it flies over), intelligence, and historical significance.
The piece was inspired by a personal reckoning. Born from my time spent in New York City, where pigeons are often treated with disdain despite their deep entanglement in human history. These birds, once bred and trained for their homing abilities, served bravely as wartime messengers. Over time, we made them dependent on us, only to reject them when they were no longer seen as useful.
This artwork reclaims the pigeon’s dignity. With soft texture, quiet strength, and expressive detail, Messenger invites viewers to look again and perhaps look with compassion. Printed on high-quality fine art paper and available in multiple sizes, this piece offers a moment of reflection on what it means to be forgotten and the quiet resilience that persists anyway.
Perfect for:
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Lovers of birds, urban wildlife, and overlooked beauty
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Those drawn to symbolic, narrative-rich illustration
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A poignant addition to studios, libraries, or personal altars to the unsung