This acrylic painting captures the bold elegance of the Oropendola, inspired by a photograph I took while working at the Virginia Zoo. The bird’s elongated form, rich chestnut and black plumage, and commanding gaze are rendered with expressive brushwork and subtle tonal layering. A custom fabric mat featuring soft florals was selected to accentuate the bird’s natural coloring and add a gentle contrast to its strong silhouette. The background remains minimal, allowing the Oropendola’s posture and palette to take center stage.
Acrylic paint on hot press paper. Matted to 11×14 with a custom fabric mat. One of a kind.
About the Virginia Zoo
Located in Norfolk, Virginia, the Virginia Zoo is deeply committed to wildlife conservation through its “Act for Wildlife” initiative. The zoo supports global efforts to protect endangered species and habitats, funding programs that combat poaching, restore ecosystems, and promote sustainable development. It also participates in breeding programs and scientific research, helping preserve biodiversity while educating the public about the importance of ecological stewardship.
About the Oropendola
Oropendolas are large, tropical birds found in the forest canopies of Central and South America. Known for their striking yellow tails, pointed bills, and elaborate hanging nests—some stretching up to six feet—they are social and vocal, often producing a mix of gurgles, whistles, and clicks. Their plumage varies by species, with many displaying chestnut, black, and olive tones. Oropendolas play an important ecological role in seed dispersal and insect control, and their communal nesting behavior makes them a fascinating subject for both scientists and artists.
This acrylic painting captures the bold elegance of the Oropendola, inspired by a photograph I took while working at the Virginia Zoo. The bird’s elongated form, rich chestnut and black plumage, and commanding gaze are rendered with expressive brushwork and subtle tonal layering. A custom fabric mat featuring soft florals was selected to accentuate the bird’s natural coloring and add a gentle contrast to its strong silhouette. The background remains minimal, allowing the Oropendola’s posture and palette to take center stage.
Acrylic paint on hot press paper. Matted to 11×14 with a custom fabric mat. One of a kind.
About the Virginia Zoo
Located in Norfolk, Virginia, the Virginia Zoo is deeply committed to wildlife conservation through its “Act for Wildlife” initiative. The zoo supports global efforts to protect endangered species and habitats, funding programs that combat poaching, restore ecosystems, and promote sustainable development. It also participates in breeding programs and scientific research, helping preserve biodiversity while educating the public about the importance of ecological stewardship.
About the Oropendola
Oropendolas are large, tropical birds found in the forest canopies of Central and South America. Known for their striking yellow tails, pointed bills, and elaborate hanging nests—some stretching up to six feet—they are social and vocal, often producing a mix of gurgles, whistles, and clicks. Their plumage varies by species, with many displaying chestnut, black, and olive tones. Oropendolas play an important ecological role in seed dispersal and insect control, and their communal nesting behavior makes them a fascinating subject for both scientists and artists.
