Outdoors Online: The Art of Birds in Flight

From the dawn of art to the here and now, birds have captured the imagination of artists. The mystery and magic of birds on the wing, gathered in groups, or on their own, have inspired new ways of seeing and appreciating the natural world.  

Join our artful conversation to explore all the colors of the rainbow evident in vibrant displays and acrobatic flights of fancy. We will contemplate an array of avian antics that populate paintings by artists as different as Audubon, Elizabeth Gould, and Uttech. Stories abound filled with symbolism, a sense of hope and freedom, and concern about change. Our participatory discussion includes historical to contemporary images, a diversity of artists, and enlightening videos.  

Lynn Berkowitz, MFA, BFA, with a career in art museums and online learning, has developed an array of award-winning gallery tours, experiences, and apps aimed at helping audiences of all ages and abilities engage with a diversity of art ‘isms and approaches.  

Students will learn:  

• A diversity of artists whose paintings feature all manners of birds in flight.  
• Key works of art that exemplify the theme from a variety of art ‘isms and styles.  
• An introduction featuring historical to contemporary artists, both well-known and, to some, new discoveries.  
• Active looking strategies designed to increase engagement.  
• Art appreciation considerations that enhance cultural enjoyment.