Charley Harper and Cardinals

Artist Charley Harper was known for his stylized wildlife depictions. Whether it was prints, posters, illustrations or other media, you could see what he called, "minimal realism". He wanted to show the essence of his subject with the fewest details.

When asked to describe what he does, Charley said, "When I look at a wildlife or nature subject, I don’t see the feathers in the wings, I just count the wings. I see exciting shapes, color combinations, patterns, textures, fascinating behavior and endless possibilities for making interesting pictures. ."

I chose these housewares with his design, because I have a special place in my heart for cardinals. Perhaps it's more like a family conclave who live in my yard, and one pair who especially touch me.

Every day, I see when the female is at the birdfeeder, the male is nearby watching out for her. It's nice to know chivalry exists in the bird world....or is that, "safety in numbers"? Either way, I like what I see.