Ethereal Watcher – Blue Jay Selected for the 2025 Adirondacks National Exhibition of American Watercolors

Ethereal Watcher - Blue Jay, Opaque & transparent watercolor on museum board, 8in x 10in, Rebecca Latham

I’m honored to announce that my newest watercolor, Ethereal Watcher – Blue Jay, has been selected for inclusion in the prestigious 2025 Adirondacks National Exhibition of American Watercolors.

This painting reflects my ongoing fascination with the blue jay—not only for its vivid coloration but for the quiet intensity it carries. The bird’s sharp, watchful gaze and poised presence inspired me to explore more than just its physical form. I wanted to capture the essence of a moment when the blue jay becomes a silent observer of its forest surroundings, embodying both alertness and calm.

Watercolor, with its luminous transparency to translucent qualities and fluid nature, offers a unique way to convey the subtle interplay of light and texture that defines this scene. The medium demands patience and attentiveness, qualities that mirror the experience of observing wildlife itself. Through this process, I aim to create a connection between the viewer and the subject—a shared moment of stillness and reflection.

Being part of the Adirondacks exhibition is a meaningful milestone, especially given the region’s rich natural beauty and the high caliber of artists represented. I hope Ethereal Watcher – Blue Jay invites viewers to pause and appreciate the quiet power and grace found in the natural world.