No. 12 The Yellow Warbler

Every Bird Has a Story:

Warblers can be difficult. There are so many. Many are so similar.

But the reason they’re so hard - for this midwestern birder - is they are only here for 2-3 weeks a year.

This is my first warbler. Many, many years ago, when my birding was limited to what I saw in the yard, I was watching American Goldfinches stripping seed the seedheads from volunteer sunfliowers and millet aoutound our feeder. One looked a little different. I pulled out the binoculars and got a great look at my first known warbler, the Yellow Warbler.

I know now, that he wasn’t eating seed (most warblers are dedicated insectovores), but for some reason he was with these somewhat similar looking birds. A couple of years ago, when I learned I’d be leading summer bird walks in warbler heavy New England, I took Cornell’s Bird Academy on-line warbler class. Even just focusing on lessons focused on New England warblers, the class was overwhelming. There are so many warblers! This - and a handful of other’s I’d experienced - were the foundation on which to build tis new knowledge.

When I did lead those bird walks in the Berkshires, these guys were my saving grace! They’re beautiful, they’re everywhere and their song is distinct, memorable and sweet. In fact it ends with a very fast rising, “Sweet, sweet, sweet, sweet!” Once I’d established a solid understanding of this birds, the others in the neighborhood fell into place.

An aside - Any yellow bird sells well. carve a lot of these. I love their streaky red breasts!

Another aside - Well known and fantastic carver and painter (and my mentor) Yves Laurent of Quebec, added a few touches to this bird while demonstrating his techniques. This bird may offer the easiest entry point to purchase any carving touched by the master!

This is a bird I love to hate and hate to love.

• Knife-carved from cedar or white pine

• Hand-painted and authentically distressed with Old Fashioned Milk Paints

• Imported glass bead eyes

• Mounted on a simple branch and wood disk base

• Measures approximately 5 1/2”l x 2 1/4”w x 5 1/4”t

• Signed paper label signed by the artist

About the Artist:

The Artistic Journey of Geoff Davis: From Whimsical Woodcarvings to Community-Building Projects

Nestled in the charming town of Noblesville, Indiana, the home studio of Geoff Davis exudes a rustic warmth that mirrors the artist's own inviting nature. Known for his intricately crafted woodcarvings, Davis has carved a niche for himself in the world of American folk art. His creations, which include whimsical birds, animals, and early American pull toys, are not just artistic expressions but a bridge to a bygone era rich in craftsmanship and storytelling.

Davis’s artistic roots run deep, tracing back to his Pennsylvania German heritage. He draws inspiration from traditional carvers like Wilhelm Schimmel and Schtockschnitzler Simmons, yet his work transcends mere homage. By blending wood, tinplate, and leather, he creates pieces that are distinctly his own. Each bird and animal he carves is imbued with a sense of history and personality, making his work highly sought after by collectors and art enthusiasts alike.

Beyond his artistic creations, Davis is deeply committed to education and community engagement. He frequently conducts workshops at his Noblesville studio, sharing his knowledge of woodcarving, leatherwork, and other traditional crafts with students of all ages. His involvement with Traditional Arts Indiana underscores his dedication to preserving and promoting traditional art forms throughout the state.

One of Davis's notable projects is his "50 Little Birds" installment, which has garnered significant attention. This unique collection, which captures the essence of his whimsical style, has been showcased in various venues, including the Indianapolis International Airport. The installation offers travelers a glimpse into the charm and intricate craftsmanship of Davis’s work, turning the airport into an unexpected gallery space that delights and inspires​​.

Davis's journey and artistic philosophy were poignantly captured in the documentary "50 Little Birds," directed by Hannah Lindgren. The film delves into his personal struggles with mental health, revealing how his art serves as a therapeutic outlet and a means of living with intention. The documentary has garnered acclaim, winning the Best of Hoosier Lens award at the Indy Shorts and Heartland Film Festival, and is available for streaming on Hoodox​.

In addition to "50 Little Birds," Davis's adventurous spirit and love for community projects shine through in "Toboggan 'Bout Town." This short documentary, directed by Rocky Walls, chronicles Davis and three friends as they build a ten-foot toboggan and participate in the U.S. National Toboggan Championships in Camden, Maine. The film is a testament to Davis's ability to rally his community around creative and fun endeavors​.

Davis's influence extends beyond Indiana. He has taught at the esteemed Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village in Maine, offering workshops in book arts and nature journaling​. Moreover, his talents have taken him to Snow Farm in Williamsburg, Massachusetts. This renowned craft school, set in the picturesque Berkshire Mountains, provides a perfect backdrop for Davis to share his skills with a broader audience. Snow Farm’s immersive, hands-on workshops attract students from across the country, all eager to learn from master craftsmen like Davis.

Geoff Davis's multifaceted career is a beautiful blend of artistry, education, and community engagement. His work not only preserves traditional crafts but also fosters a sense of connection and creativity among those he teaches and inspires. As Davis continues to carve, teach, and build, his legacy as a folk artist and community builder only grows richer.