Collared Doves

Amy Izat

This image shows a detailed hyper-realistic drawing of two collared doves perched on the ground facing left. The left and lower side of their bodies have been erased to represent the area of her vision that Amy no longer sees when she looks directly into the bird’s eyes. In this area there is a faint impression of the original drawing.

Inspiration behind the artwork

In the roof of my studio, I hear the cooing of the doves that spend their days side by side in front of my studio window. These monogamous birds mate for life; they will remain with one another throughout even the darkest winter months. These strong bonds extend beyond death. When their mate passes, they will remain and stand by their dead mate to watch over them and care for them. If the body of their mate is no longer present, they will return to the place where it passed. 

There was a time in hospital where I thought my life was coming to an end, and the fear of being forgotten by the busy world and lives we all now lead began to creep in. The presence of the doves and the knowledge of their ability to feel loss are a daily reminder not only of what I have personally lost, but of what I can now forgive, and this fills me with inner peace. In religious beliefs, the dove carried an olive branch to show it had reached dry land and to indicate God had forgiven mankind. This story is one of peace and acceptance. It is the loss I have had in my life—of time, of adventures, of energy, of sight— that has allowed me to accept what has happened to me and to be grateful for what I have gained, thus allowing me to feel complete and utter peace. By watching the doves, I feel a sense of inner peace as I walk forward into my next chapter of life. By choosing to let go of the trauma, I can live every moment as a gift.

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Swallow in flight

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Puffins