No. 47 The Downy Woodpecker

Every Bird Has a Story:

This tiny woodpecker has a bid story. When I was a child - less than ten - I awoke one morning to bright sunshine and very loud pounding on outside of my bedroom wall. This was unexpected, to say the least. Woodpeckers, espeiocally Red-Headed Woodpecker, were common in our yard and I recognized the cadence.

My mom rushed in and, looking out the window, pounded on the wall and and we both saw a smally black bird retreating back into the canopy.

This began a decade long battle between my parents and Downy Woodpeckers. The birds persisted and began to damage the house. They colonial reproduction house was clad - in classic New England style - in unpainted cedar and for whatever reason, Downy Woodpeckers had to have at it. (I know today that they were trying to excavate nesting cavities.)

The cornerboard outside my room. was dotted with holes - up to three inches in diameter and had to be replaced every season or two. At one point they did excavate between two studs. Starlings tpook over the space and we could clearly hear starling nestlings while on the toilet.

I had received a BB gun for a birthday. Today I wonder if it was purchased with woodpeckers in mind. I’ve a cleae memory of my mother chasing Downies around the yard shooting into the trees. There is no scenerio where she was going to his those little fast birds. At some point - maybe with the grossly increased traffic on the road or the development of adjoining undeveloped land, they were no longer a problem.

(BTW - Shooting native birds iillegal. Theu are federally protected. Just don’t do it. )

I posed this bird hanging beneath a branch because it is their natural habit. They work the tops and bottoms of branches equally. If one come to my suet feeder - they opften do - they are often hanging below and eating above.

• Knife-carved from cedar or white pine

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

• Imported glass bead eyes

• Hammered tinplate extended wings

• Mounted on a found wood base with a hardwood log

• Measures approximately 6 3/4”l x 4”w x 5 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.