Heidi Langridge’s artwork captures the dramatic and vibrant essence of birds, celebrating their beauty while offering a reflective exploration of group dynamics and human connection. Placing her avian subjects centre stage, Heidi’s paintings are set against richly saturated backgrounds of billowing forms that hint at foliage and habitat without adhering to strict realism. Her works invite viewers to revel in the joy of the present moment while contemplating the interplay between nature and human consciousness. “How the birds sit together in my paintings is very important,” Heidi explains. “It is not my intention to depict natural bird behaviour but to subvert it a little, so it reflects us. I want the birds to relate to each other in a group dynamic, with some being more dominant or hesitant than others. These paintings are imitations of nature, filtered through my consciousness. The suggested habitats allow me to hold the birds in place and set them centre stage without trying to make anything too real.” Self-taught, Heidi has been creating from her home studio on the South Downs for over 17 years, where she draws inspiration from the natural world and the vibrant coastal life nearby. Her paintings and prints not only honour the joy of birds but also bring them closer into our lives, fostering an appreciation for their unique personalities and the fragility of their habitats.