This was a commission from a wonderful client who loves shamas as much as I do. He wanted a painting of a singing shama, but gave me freedom from there to paint something beautiful. I asked for a list of his favorite flowers, and was so pleased to see ginger on the list. The torch gingers and red ginger in this composition are from my yard. It was a dream commission with just enough guidance to supply ideas but enough freedom to present some interesting compositions. I love to grow flowers and see the birds fluttering through the trees and the ginger stalks and this combination of bird and flower reminded me of a few unusual interactions I have had with these curious, intelligent birds. I wanted this painting to capture the happiness of a sunny day and the fearless personality of a shama.