The Northern Cardinal has been one of the most requested additions to the collection, so it felt only natural that it would eventually find its place among my Field Notes, a collection inspired by one of my own fondest memories: watching birds with my grandparents.
The inspiration for this piece came from someone sharing with me just how meaningful cardinals are in their own life. Through that conversation, I learned of the saying that “loved ones are near when cardinals appear.” For many, seeing a cardinal has become a comforting reminder of someone they have lost—a little moment that makes them feel, even for a moment, that their loved one is close by.
Interestingly, the inspiration for this piece came during the anniversary month of my dad's passing. Call it fate, coincidence, or simply one of those little moments that make you pause. I usually find myself drawn to creating my bird pieces in the spring, but perhaps this one found me in April for a reason.
While cardinals don't hold that same meaning for me personally, I understand why they have become so special to so many people. Perhaps this piece is my way of seeing this familiar bird from a different perspective—not only as something beautiful to observe, but as a little messenger of memory, love, and connection for those who need it to be.
My grandparents had a bird feeder just outside the kitchen window, and I could spend ages sitting nearby, watching the steady stream of birds that came to visit. I remember asking about the ones I didn't recognize and slowly learning to notice the little differences between them.
This piece features detailed illustrations of both the male and female Northern Cardinal, celebrating one of the most familiar and beloved birds to grace our backyards.
Pairs well with Spinus Tristis and Sialia Sialis
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