Snowy Red

The Story

A red-shouldered hawk sits on a weathered fence post while snow drifts down around it, the rust-and-cream barring of its breast glowing against a soft gray field. The bird is turned in profile, talons wrapped over the post, watching the ground below for movement. Falling flakes hang in the air and blur the background, leaving the hawk as the one sharp, warm shape in the cold.

The Location

Red-shouldered hawks hunt the wood edges and open fields of Southern Maryland through the winter, dropping on prey from a low perch. Snow is uncommon enough here that a hawk in it makes for a rare pairing of subject and weather.

Artist's Perspective

Chris Michael heads out in the snow when the light goes soft and the color pulls back to a few tones. Here the muted field lets the hawk's rusty breast do the work, a single note of warmth in a quiet scene.

Curator's Recommendation

A striking vertical piece for a study, hallway, or office. The warm bird against cool snow gives it presence on a narrow wall and pairs well with other winter and raptor works.

Print Quality

Archival-Quality Canvas, Made in the USA.

Every Chesapeake Focus print is produced on archival-grade poly-cotton canvas using UL GREENGUARD GOLD certified inks — water resistant, fade resistant, and anti-yellowing. Each canvas is hand-stretched over FSC-certified, kiln-dried stretcher bars that are knot-free and warp-free. Finished with your choice of hardwood floater frame in matte black, white, brown, or natural. Ready to hang right out of the box.