Bird Paintings
Chickens from Cambridgeshire.
Hi Penny, I’m sending several pictures of our three hens. The speckled one is named Tyrannosaurus Pecks (T Pex), the brown one is Henny Eggby and the gray one is Hen Solo (she is most difficult to photograph…the only decent shot of her has her beak covered in mash!)
ook forward to hearing from you.
Travis.
Penny –
This is fabulous! I love it and my wife is going to be thrilled. I can’t think of anything to alter at all. Really, stupendous work!!
Thank you so much for a beautiful piece of work. The hens are captured perfectly. Even Hen Solo’s wonky beak!
This is wonderful.
Travis,
Bird Painting Artist – By Penny Richardson
Birds have always fascinated me. Their colour, movement, and character seem to bring the canvas to life in a very special way. Over the years, I’ve painted many bird portraits. They range from much-loved hens in the garden to exotic parrots from across the world. Each one tells its own story, and for me, that’s what makes this kind of work so enjoyable.
Why I Love Painting Birds
When I begin a bird painting, I always look first for the personality that shines through. Every bird has its own character. It might be a tilt of the head, a flash of colour, or a certain way it holds itself. Capturing that in paint is both challenging and deeply rewarding.
I love the variety of birds I’m asked to paint. One week it might be a pair of hens from a smallholding in Cambridgeshire. The next week, I may paint a magnificent macaw or a beautiful owl. The colours, feathers and textures offer endless inspiration. There’s something very peaceful about studying the delicate detail of feathers and the way light moves across them.
Memorable Bird Portraits
A few commissions stand out in my memory.
I once painted three hens for a lovely client in Cambridgeshire — each with its own quirky name and personality. One of them, “Hen Solo”, had a mischievous look that was irresistible to paint! Another memorable piece was a pair of Ruby Macaws commissioned by a client in Trinidad & Tobago. The vivid reds and blues of their plumage were breathtaking and a joy to capture in oils.
How My Bird Painting Commissions Work
If you’d like me to paint your bird, the process is simple and very personal.
- Get in touch – You can email me with a few good photographs of your bird. Alternatively, use my contact form. Tell me about their personality and any particular pose or background you’d like.
- We discuss your ideas – I’ll get back to you to talk through the details, size, and composition.
- Quotation and deposit – I’ll provide a quote, and once the deposit is received, I’ll begin work.
- Painting in progress – I’ll create your painting using the photos and my sketches as reference. I will ensure the finished piece captures your bird’s true spirit.
- Final approval and delivery – When the painting is complete, I’ll send you an image for approval before posting.
I work carefully to ensure every brushstroke reflects the unique charm of your bird.
A Lasting Tribute in Paint
A bird painting makes a beautiful keepsake or gift. It could be a cherished pet parrot. It could also be a group of hens that make you smile every day. Or, it might be a wild bird that holds a special memory. A hand-painted portrait can preserve that moment forever.
There’s something timeless about original artwork — it brings warmth, texture and life that a photograph can’t quite match. I love hearing how my paintings bring joy to people’s homes and help keep special memories alive.
Get in Touch
If you’d like to commission a bird painting, you can contact me directly through my website. You can also reach me by email to discuss your ideas.
I’d love to create something truly personal for you — a celebration of colour, character and the beauty of birds.
Warm wishes,
Penny Richardson
Artist & Bird Portrait Painter