Endangered knowledge: The Soul of Humus #17 Cowbirds

I just read an intesting article; how Cowbirds are hedging their bets when choosing surrogate birds to hatch and raise their young. Another instance that supports the theory that diversity is the ticket when it comes to the survival of a species.

Coincidently I picked up the bronze Cowbirds yesterday. They are ready for me to recreate the texture where they were damaged during the spruing process. Once that is complete I will deal with their patina. I should wait and decide on their finish once the abstract bison is further developed. That said I am excited to see how the materials will look in a polished finish. Below are closeups of each bird - just for the record.

The finishes are very powdery looking and flat because they were just sandblasted. When I decide on the patiba the textures will really show up.

I took a risk when I decided on the manner in which I would create the birds. The Cowbirds are constructed in a primitive manner. And they look extra primitive laying on the faux bois chair. Context impacts the way we see. I feel hopeful the organic and rough construction will work on the abstract beast they will be attached to. Roughly constructed they support the story, polished perfectly detailed birds would not relay their connection to the geography and mammals. I realize I have not taken the safe root and hope I didn’t need to hedge my by as the Cowbirds did theirs.

The big bird side 1

The big bird side 1

Opposite side.On this image you can see a smooth surface from where the sprue was cur off. One spots the I will retexture.

Opposite side.

On this image you can see a smooth surface from where the sprue was cur off. One spots the I will retexture.

From the top

From the top

Bird 2

Bird 2

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Adjustments.jpeg
Bird 3

Bird 3

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Adjustments.jpeg
Derail shot of bird 3 - you can see the seeds and grass stems.

Derail shot of bird 3 - you can see the seeds and grass stems.

Bird 4

Bird 4

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As I recall this one gas some bluebonbet seeds in it's back feathers.

As I recall this one gas some bluebonbet seeds in it's back feathers.

Bird 5

Bird 5

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Texture gives me good goosebumps.

Texture gives me good goosebumps.