No. 41 The Rose Breasted Grosbeak

It seems to me that Rose Breasted Grosbeaks are seasonal feeder birds. the occasionally show up at feeders in the spring - during migration - but prefer to find their own food, primarily seeds, once they]ve settled into nesting.

My wife once texted me to ask about the new bird on the feeder. I usually flinch when I’m asked to identify a bird from a description, but this one’s easy. The streak of blood red on the breast is a strong field mark, for sure!

I have ADHD. One of my symptoms - and my superpower - is hyperfixation. When I discover a new interest, it’s all I think about and study until I’ve discovered answers to all of my questions. When I’ve wrung the world of everything I want to learn, I shift and hyperfocus in a different direction. As someone who’s done this for my sixty-one years, I’ve developed a cycle of topics and skills-sets through which I rotate. I’ve also learned where these topics and skills overlap. This is where the super powers emerge. Today’s hyperfixation is at the junction of nature study, woodcarving and decorative painting.

My first time through this magic combination was about 15 years ago. I was teaching in Indianapolis and had a window that opened up right to the White River downtown. I could see the city skyline. I watched our football stadium emerge and the old one crumble.

More interesting, the river served as a wildlife highway through this very dense urban development. It was not uncommon to see deer, fox and bald eagles.

The best were the songbirds, on spring migration, that would drop into the weedy fence-line to rest and recover on their journey.

One day, in the middle direct instruction, I remember glancing out and seeing my first Rose Breasted Grosbeak, not ten feet outside the window. Needless to say I was beyond excited. My students? Not so much. Like many of the folks around me, they’s had enough of my current fixationl

Every Bird Has a Story:

• Knife-carved from cedar or white pine

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

• Imported glass bead eyes

• Mounted on a found wood base and an antique walnut hexagonal furniture part.

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