Original Watercolours

When Stephen Gayford's paintings start, They're borne of heartfelt love, Beyond the most expressive art That he must rise above... And so begins a gentle course Till oils are employed, So watercolours reinforce The details he's enjoyed... The finer points are thus portrayed In all their finery, As if to pass the highest grade The human eye can see... Thus feathers, furs and twinkling eyes When framed bless any wall, Enough to take us by surprise, Now crystal clear to all... Perhaps that's why we treasure so The skills of mortal men, When fine art oils overflow With truths beyond our ken... God's grace helps those who paint or draw With patience that's sublime, So that we're blessed, yes, even more, By those who take their time... Denis Martindale, copyright, February 2014. The poem is based on magnificent watercolour paintings by Stephen Gayford, nb Google search gayfordgallery. These are the beginnings for each major oil painting, granting a detailed insight into each creature's character. Find more wildlife poems using Google search for the search phrase Stephen Gayford poetry.