No. 31 The Northern Mockingbird

Every Bird Has a Story:

This is a bird of historic references. Listen to the Mockingbird was a popular Victorian song, said to be Abraham Lincoln’s favorite. Most of us have an appreciation for Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, where the Mockingbird is said to represent innocence.

I experienced this love for this bird in my childhood. My grandfather was very intereted in the birds around him. (Though I’d never call him a birder.) I fondly remember his joy when his resident mockingbird would roost on their chimney top and its song would fill the family room.

A Northern Mockingbird’s song can be compered to that of the Gray Catbird. It’s composed of long songs composed of snippets of the songs of many birds. Though my grandfather’s bird specialized in natural sounds, a quick online search will reveal a repertoire the very human sounds of sirens, telephone rings and car alarms.

It’s fairly easy to pick out a mimic - a catbird or mockingbird - is fairly easy to identify. The changing calls, meows and whistles are dead giveaways. Habit will take you the next step to identifying these noisy species. The Gray Catbird is usually buried in thick chest high brush and the Northern Mockingbird enjoys high open perches like chimneys and lamposts. In fact there are sever mockingbirds that claim specific sections of the parking loits at some of our local strip malls. A dreaded trip to the big box store is often relieved with the joyful song of the mockingbird.

• 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 Maine made maple hemisphere.

• Measures approximately 6 1/2”l x 3”w x 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.