Feathers, Form & Function

Artist Chris Maynard's book, "Feathers, Form, and Function," offers a unique artistic perspective on and insight into the evolution, function and symbolism of feathers. Through both thoughtful commentary and evocative images of his celebrated feather artwork, Maynard explores how humans have found meaning in feathers for many millennia. Using a small scalpel, Maynard carves bird-related artwork out of feathers. Each design highlights the feathers' beauty and form, and calls attention to topics important both to us and the birds such as flight, lightness and attraction. With a sophisticated sense of design and a bit of humor, Maynard offers a sense of the lives and movements of the birds. How is a feather like a volcano? Why does a duck shrink before it dives? What role does color play in a bird's life? In "Feathers, Form, and Function," you'll find insight into these questions as well as new ways of seeing through the eyes of an artist, biologist, philosopher-and the birds themselves. Chris Maynard is a Pacific Northwest artist, author, speaker and naturalist. Working with feathers since the age of 12, Maynard creates shadow boxes and art installations using tiny tools and a family heirloom magnifying glass. His creations are sought after globally by art collectors and bird lovers alike. All feathers are legally-acquired, naturally shed by birds such as parrots, peacocks, crows and turkeys, and many others. "The link between bird and mind is what animates this new book." (Orion Magazine)