No. 23 The Yellow Rumped Warbler

Every Bird Has a Story:

“Butter Butts”, as these are often called, are common warbler. But, no few warblers are common in central Indiana. Unfortunately We’re not just a fly-through state for airline passengers and most warblers are migrants that only remain for a very short time.

When I learned that I was going to teach carving and lead bird walks in western Massachusetts, I knew I had my work cut out for me. I’m an informed and capable of leading these walks, I didn’t know the warblers. We just have so little time to practice and perfect our warbler skills.

To combat this I took the warbler class from Cornell Lab’s Bird Academy. I took it in the early spring in hopes that I would be prepared for the brief warbler invasion that was coming in a few weeks. The class was fantastic, but there are so many warblers! As an educator, i know that once I could become comfortable with a few species, I knew my knowledge would grow quickly. Learners have to establish a framework - a filing cabinet - before new facts and notions can stick.

The plan worked. I’m no warbler expert, but I can hold my own.

Why all this backstory for this little bird? I’ve ADHD and my ilk loves a long back story. Also, this bird is significant because it was the first and most frequent warbler to visit during this intense learning period. I was seeing and hearing them everywhere! Even in my yard.

Since then I’ve learned to hear many birds, that I once thought infrequent and rare, in my own backyard. If you slow down and learn to truly observe the world become a much more interesting place.

• Knife-carved from cedar or white pine

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

• Imported glass bead eyes

• Mounted on a painted found wood base and hickory stump.

• Measures approximately 6”l x 2 1/2”w x 6 1/2”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.