“I am but a Martin” ~ Inspiration provided by the bird of the same name

March has been full of new ideas… Well, saying that, the ideas have been in my head for what feels like forever. Months, at most, where I knew that for now, they would have to say steadfast in journal, or in mind. Written down, in pencil, with details noted besides, for instruction, for when the space in my days became again, and I could put paintbrush to paper. 

 

I have written a great deal, and for that I continue to be so grateful. A way to release feelings within, that otherwise, could have just felt like a weight to bear. Instead, released and gifted, both to myself, and to you all.  

 

There are birds which have spoken to me these last months. In ways they won’t realise, and for reasons, known only to me, in terms of their meaning. Migration, and travel, are ideas I continue to think upon. Due to my father’s own life, with messages spanning oceans, and posted from here to there, and back again. These letters have given me much to muse upon.  

 

A Martin, by name, the name of some migratory birds, and those who overwinter elsewhere, still inspire me greatly. Therefore, House Martins, Swifts, Swallows. Goldcrests, also, for their appearance, after their long and folkloric journeys.  

 

It has been so lovely these last weeks, to have been able to make time to sit at my desk, and have my paints to my right. Dip my paintbrush in water, and place pen and pencil details upon paper’s surface also.  How lucky I am, to have this form of therapy, as part of who I am. I do not take it for granted.  

 

When I went up to Tifty, before Christmas, I visited close family friends and spoke of the birds I wanted to create in 2026.  A gathering of tiny souls, settling into flight, with all the ones I have created in previous years.  A brood, a flock, a murmuration. Sunshine and colour. Each and every one from my hand and my imagination. 

 

The settling way, that when a something imagined, becomes a real and palpable, touchable, reality, works like magic to me.  Once one is created, then it kind of sets a ball rolling, and the others transpire, in proliferation, and with joy. 

 

I look forward to showing you, all I will bring to my exhibitions and displays this year. Small, but mighty, flight is for the brave: as is, stepping into the creative world, and continuing to do what I do.  

 

We each should not compare ourselves to one another, for everyone’s journey is different.  Some span oceans. Some only step into the next room.  Some are travelling through a period of loss.  Some seek sunnier climes. Some struggle to find where we are headed. Some, perch above, and watch as others busy themselves in their everyday.  Some carry messages of note and of gravity. We are all on different paths.  

 

I am but a Martin.  A lucky little bird. On my way to a new day, with paintbrush, and pencil, tucked safely under my wing. 

 

Home is calling me.  As is my want.  

 

Ever onwards.