 Still Perch Beneath the Florida Sky by Kathy Corey is a piece that invites you into a quiet moment of observation—an encounter with nature rendered in oil on linen at a modest 20 by 16 inches. The painting centers on a Mangrove Cuckoo, a bird whose subtle beauty and reserved nature have long captured my attention.
This bird is portrayed perched calmly on a slender branch, set against a backdrop of clear, expansive Florida sky. Its plumage commands focus with a vivid orange torso contrasted by deeper brown markings on its wings and head. The tail feathers offer a striking pattern of black and white, adding a graphic element that draws the eye. Sparse green leaves cling to the branch, bringing a natural freshness to the composition without overwhelming the scene. The overall effect is one of quiet presence and stillness—a snapshot of a fleeting, serene moment in a coastal habitat. Her inspiration for this work grows from a series dedicated to the Mangrove Cuckoo, a species native to the Florida Keys. These birds are elusive by nature, often settling quietly in dense mangroves where their discreet song punctuates the air. Their slender forms, distinctive markings, and low, croaking calls have been sources of both fascination and challenge. The bird’s tendency to remain still for extended periods captures that sense of peaceful watchfulness beneath the vast Florida sky. Technically, the process demanded close attention to the bird’s unique traits: the contrast between its buffy underside and darker upper plumage, the detailed black-and-yellow bill, and especially the tail’s bold patterning. Balancing the intricate textures of feathers with the simplicity of the sky and foliage was key to conveying the quiet dignity of this often-overlooked species. Still Perch Beneath the Florida Sky stands as more than a naturalistic study; it is an homage to the subtleties of life on Florida’s coastal edge. She hopes it evokes for you not just the image of a bird, but a moment of calm connection—a reminder of the delicate ecosystems thriving quietly, often out of sight, and the patience it takes to truly see them.
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 Captured Flowers is a vivid exploration of elegance and history, encapsulated within the confines of a canvas. This recent work of mine delves into the enchanting world of perfume bottles—their forms and the stories they tell, poised against a dark backdrop that accentuates their individual personas.
At the forefront are three distinct perfume bottles, each an ode to the art of luxury. To the left stands a square bottle with a striking rectangular stopper, where light dances across its transparent finish, playing with the warm amber liquid nestled inside. Its presence is both bold and refined, demanding admiration for its architectural form. The central piece is a more modest yet equally captivating bottle, crowned with a rounded top. Its subdued color palette whispers subtlety, encouraging a journey inward, as it forms a bridge between its companions. Meanwhile, on the right, rests the iconic Chanel No. 5 bottle. Its classic rectangular design, paired with an ornate cap and its storied label, conjures the timeless elegance synonymous with its name. The interplay of light and shadow brings the painting to life, transforming glass and liquid into storytelling elements that invite the viewer to look closer. The painting's depth is enhanced by the intricate details captured in every reflection, turning a still life into a dynamic conversation between material and memory. Creating Captured Flowers was a labor of love, inspired by the compelling history and artistry embedded in perfume making. It was an exercise not only in capturing the essence of the physical bottles but in reviving the stories they hold—from the intimate connections they inspire to the timeless allure they radiate. The process itself challenged my perception of detail and realism. Capturing not just the external beauty but the very aura of these bottles required a delicate balance of patience and precision—a journey into the textures and transparencies that define them. This artwork beckons not just to those who appreciate art but also to lovers of history and luxury, forging a space where aesthetics and storytelling beautifully intertwine. Through Captured Flowers, I invite you to see beyond the surface, to uncover the elegance of daily rituals and the luxury in the everyday—a gentle reminder of the beauty in the details we often overlook.  "Serenade of the Setting Sun" by Kathy Corey
The scene is set with two majestic palm trees that gracefully frame the composition, their fronds swaying gently as if in a silent dance with the breeze. The sun is poised at the horizon's edge, either rising or sinking, casting a gentle, warm glow that envelops the landscape. This natural spectacle is mirrored in the body of water that dominates the foreground, where gentle ripples reflect the soft palette of colors above. The sky is painted in a soothing mix of purples and blues, while the occasional cloud catches light in soft yellows and whites, adding depth and movement to the scene. The overall mood is one of peace and serenity, transporting the viewer to a moment of quiet reflection and connection with nature. Inspired by the view from the artist’s backyard on Shark Key, this piece holds a personal touch, capturing the unique beauty of a Key West seascape. It invites the audience to experience the calm elegance of a tropical setting, perfectly encapsulating a moment that feels both intimate and expansive.  Nest of Serenity is a new chapter in my artistic journey, woven with a deep sense of purpose and delicate emotion. As an oil on linen piece measuring 20x16 inches, it stands as a testament to the intricate and fragile beauty of nature, especially as it faces the threat of dwindling populations and habitat loss.
At the heart of this painting is a woman, her thoughtful gaze capturing a quiet strength and introspection. Her hair, styled back, adds to her dignified demeanor. This central figure is enveloped by a vivid tapestry of foliage, a testament to the natural world that surrounds and sustains us. On either side of her, perched on branches, are two birds; they are Mangrove Cuckoos, residents of and witnesses to the dwindling ecosystems of the Florida Keys. Within the United States, this tropical bird can be found only in dense mangroves along the southern coasts of Florida. Below the woman, a nest cradling several blue eggs emerges as a poignant symbol of hope and continuity amidst adversity. The background, a lush concoction of blues and greens, breathes life into the scene, creating an atmosphere that is at once tranquil and vibrant. The inspiration for Nest of Serenity came from my growing concern over the decline of the Mangrove Cuckoo population in the U.S., particularly in the Florida Keys, where only about 2,000 remain. This urgency compelled me to turn my attention toward these beautiful creatures, intertwining their story with that of humanity, seeking to capture a shared vulnerability and resilience. Creating this piece was a unique journey of discovery. It wasn't just about painting a beautiful face with surrounding elements but about merging human and avian narratives through art. The challenge lay in balancing the serene solemnity of the woman with the vivid life of the birds and nature, all while maintaining a harmony that speaks to the soul. Nest of Serenity is more than a visual portrayal; it is a gentle call to action, a reminder of our shared responsibility to safeguard our natural world. Through this artwork, I hope to evoke a sense of connection and reflection, highlighting the beauty of coexistence while acknowledging the pressing need for conservation. May this piece inspire contemplation and a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of life. |
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April 2025
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