Puffin Portrait

Puffins are one of my favourite birds.  Called the “Tammie Norrie” in Orkney (and other Scottish Islands, I’m sure!), they have bought me such delight when I’ve had the opportunity to sit and watch them from the top of the Brough of Bursay.  Such comical creatures, flapping their ridiculously disproportionately small wings like crazy when they launch of the cliff to go fishing, looking like they’re never going to gain enough height to avoid the waves.  Makes me hold my breath every time!  Landing is another breath-hold moment!  Amazing colourful beaks and colourful personalities to go with them!  Incredibly brave, with such strength for little birds (they really are smaller than you’d think!), they pair for life.  I love them!

Produced on Pastelmat using a combination of soft pastels and pastel pencils, from a superb reference photo by Danny Virr. Original image is 24 x 20cm.

The original has sold but prints are available for purchase. Please take a look at the 2025 Price Lists - Original Art Commissions or Prints prior to ordering.