A Stump’s Memories – American Goldfinches in Autumn

The tree falls, the stump remains. When I walk in the undergrowth, I always feel drawn to the variety and strong personality of these venerable ones. I like to take the time to collect myself and through the mystery of inspiration, I sometimes capture certain daily visions of these little-known jewels, adorned with lichens, mosses and multiple embellishments. The stump even pushes its generosity so far as to allow certain plants to live and flourish at its expense. Through my work as a painter, I have to share with the public what the old stump has allowed me to understand and deepen, this message of generosity which is in fact its most beautiful heritage. Thank you.

Monique Blaquière-Benoit, wildlife artist and naturalist