Moriah Nightingale

“Dance of the Swallows”

Swallows are remarkable birds. We see them almost every day, which is probably why we often stop noticing them. They live close to people, building their nests under the roofs of houses, barns, schools, and kindergartens, as if trusting us with what matters most—their young.

This diptych was inspired by the swallows that have lived for years near my children’s kindergarten. They built their nests right on the children’s veranda, so close that the kids could watch tiny heads appear from the nests and little beaks open wide while waiting for their parents to bring food.

For the teachers, it was not always easy. They had to look after not only the children but also the swallow families. Young children do not always understand that baby birds should not be touched, taken from the nest, or disturbed. Sometimes the best way to help nature is simply to leave it alone.

What always amazed me was the courage of these birds. Despite the noise, movement, and dozens of children playing around them, they kept returning to their nests again and again.

In these paintings, I placed them among the branches of weeping willows. In the region where I grew up, willow trees were everywhere. They grow quickly, create beautiful shade in summer, and become especially magical when the wind moves through their long green branches. And when swallows weave through those branches, an ordinary summer day becomes something unforgettable.

Perhaps the most precious memories are made of moments just like these.

but then I realised that same challenge would be infinitely more funny with folks who have atypical or horror OCs

“You poor, sweet, innocent thing

Cr4 npc sketches accidentally fully rendered portraits part 2 of ???

Cr4 npc sketches accidentally fully rendered portraits part 2 of ???

In case you don't know me: hi, I'm reyah; I'm a disabled qpoc that can't work and needs your help making ends meet for yet another month. please check out my patreon!

As always, only if you can, only if you’re willing, but boosts are always super helpful <3

butterfly study

Banana Bat Musonycteris harrisoni

A bat from the Mexican states of Colima, Michoacán, and Guerrero, named because it was first discovered in a banana grove. They have adaptations for feeding on nectar, including a specialized hovering flight to feed on flowers and a long tongue which can be up to two-thirds of their body length.