The Story Behind the Art: ‘In the Moment’

Ink and watercolor illustration titled 'In the Moment' by Riverbed Art, featuring a hummingbird resting on a twig among cobalt blue flowers crafted from Aroostook River beach glass.

Spring is FINALLY in the air, and hummingbirds are a fast approaching. I’m so excited to see them again!  As I sat by my living room window the other day, I was reminded of our “Little Ninja”, a scene straight out of a nature documentary – complete with high-speed chases and dramatic showdowns. 

a photo of a Hummingbird sitting on a twig
'Little Ninja' sitting on a twig.

Last spring, a lone hummingbird perched delicately on a branch just outside the living room window in the pouring rain. Even on a dreary day, its iridescent feathers glistened as it moved its head slowly from side to side. It seemed so content sitting there, taking in its surroundings, as if it were ‘in the moment’.

But as fate would have it, this peaceful moment of tranquility was soon shattered by the arrival of yet another hummingbird. What ensued can only be described as a scene straight out of an action movie.

'Little Ninja' sketch - 2023
a photo of a hummingbird at a window bird feeder

In the blink of an eye, our serene little hummingbird transformed into a fearless ninja, defending its territory with the ferocity of a warrior on a mission. Lightning-fast reflexes helped it dart through the air, zipping and zigzagging with breathtaking speed, engaged in a high-stakes game of aerial combat and emitting little squeaks. As I watched in awe, I couldn’t help but marvel at the sheer determination and agility of these tiny creatures. As quickly as it had begun, it was over, and I watched the little ninja perch gracefully and triumphantly on the twig once more. I couldn’t help but smile at the thought of how their little battle squeaks must sound like big screams to their ears.

So here’s to our backyard ninja, a tribute to last year’s unsung hero of the feeder, whose bravery and tenacity remind us that even the smallest of creatures can possess the heart of a warrior. As the hummingbirds return once more, let us celebrate the resilience and spirit of these tiny aviators, and may their swift wings serve as a reminder to us all to embrace life with courage and determination. Here’s to finding moments of peace and joy amidst life’s twists and turns, and the importance of being ‘In the Moment’

2024 Hummingbird Migration Map

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