Late summer is marked by the arrival of flocks of terns as they pass through during their long migration. These birds with the bright orange beaks cackle a distinctive sound as they soar through the air, and huge groups of them turn like synchronized aerial acrobats. 
 
I started with a bright red ground on this painting, and allowed it to show through the paint layers to emphasize movement. The blue spiral in the air symbolizes the cycle of life, just as the regular visitation of this species represents their contribution. 
 
w20" x h16"
Framed