Top Spot

In Top Spot, a large white pelican has claimed the very top of a streetlight, perched proudly above the glowing yellow-orange globe. Along side of him, a cormorant and a seagull balance along the narrow arm, looking distinctly unimpressed. They’d really like him to move over just a little and share the prime real estate.

But the pelican isn’t interested in compromise. He got there first, and as far as he’s concerned, that

settles the matter. With the smug confidence of someone who has secured the best view before the weather turns, he sees the other two as nothing more than unwelcome invaders of his personal space.

Against a quiet green-grey sky, the warm glow of the streetlight becomes a stage for this small but familiar drama. In the distance, a faint lighthouse flashes from the peninsula, another beacon keeping watch as the weather closes in.

As with many of my paintings, the birds have taken on very human personalities. Top Spot is a playful observation of territory, entitlement and the simple truth that, sometimes, getting there first means you get the best seat — even if nobody else thinks you deserve it. It's varnished, the sides are painted and with wire across the back, it is ready to hang. Comes with a Certificate of Authenticity.