The feather represents millions of years of evolution and design perfection by Mother Nature. Birds have a distinct combination of feathers each for a specific purpose - generic vaned feathers and plume feathers allow for flight and insulation respectively. The use of an unprimed linen surface further enhances the painted effect where high quality and highly pigmented oil paints are combined with iridescent mica oils - boldness and a delicate finishing touch combined as one.

From the Wandering Albatross to the Bee Hummingbird, the huge variation in size of the feather also encompasses a huge spectrum of light. The base pigment in a feather combines with an iridescent oily sheen to yield a multitude of textures and colours. Following the “Simplified, then Amplified” approach, a stylised technique is used to visually enhance the colour and structure of the feathers within each painting.

From Eagles and Birds of Prey to tiny Kingfishers and Wrens, birds have a majesty and presence that has been interpreted in art over centuries. By studying their structure and anatomy, colour and form Sam Charles interprets and depicts birds in a unique manner.