Mark Hobson (Prints)

The Pacific North-West coast is home to large numbers of Bald Eagles and in some locations they can appear to be the most common bird seen in a day. I have sketched and painted them many times. 'Morning Catch' comes from a moment a few years ago near my studio when a cutthroat trout, swimming too close to the surface, was picked up by one of the resident pair of eagles. The mist-shrouded forests, typical of winter days, provide the backdrop and set the mood for this painting while the freshly caught trout adds a touch of detail. Layers of feathers on the eagle's back and the scales of bark on Sitka Spruce are both very like shingles on a roof and were an enjoyable exercise in observation to try to depict accurately.