Artist Chris Maynard has been creating works using bird feathers since he was 12 years old. In recent years, he has been creating a collection called "Shadow Boxes," in which he expresses his own unique world by cutting out and shaping bird feathers.



The feathers he uses are only those that have fallen off birds. Because they are used in their original state, he is not able to freely use colors like he would in a painting, and the process is very restrictive. However, Chris skillfully preserves the feathers' original colors and patterns in his works. He's often asked if he uses laser cutting, but his work is entirely done by hand. Because the process is so delicate and complex, he prefers to use scissors and tools used in eye surgery. He also insists on placing the processed feathers against a pure white background. This emphasizes the feathers' beautiful shapes and allows viewers to enjoy the shadows created by the light's intensity and intensity. From the feathers of fallen birds, Chris senses a touch of kindness amid the harshness of life. He also believes that adding even a little humor is necessary to survive, and this idea can be seen in some of his works. Bird feathers are often thought of as delicate, but they are not only necessary for birds to fly, but are also highly durable, having endured years of hard work protecting their bodies. Similarly, Chris's shadow box pieces may appear delicate at first glance, but it's clear that the feathers themselves maintain the piece's integrity.

You can inquire about Chris's shadow box works through his website or purchase them from participating galleries. Prices start from $1,200.


This article has been translated and written with permission from (Source: http://www.featherfolio.com/, https://www.instagram.com/featherfolio/, https://www.pinterest.jp/featherfolio/).