Daybreak

"Daybreak" is an exploration of life anew through birds and flight. Birds are exceptionally delicate and sensitive creatures, attune to the natural world in a way humans could only dream of. In fact, human society has relied on their physiology as a discerning tool for centuries. Miners used songbirds to warn of fatal gases, farmers wake to a rooster’s call, and hunting societies use circling birds of prey to track wounded animals. Unfortunately, due to their sensitive systems, birds are especially vulnerable to the effects of pollution and climate change.

Daybreak incorporates found items and upcycling into depictions of nature to remind us to be conscientious of the things we leave behind. Luca carves the birds from basswood, paints them, then uses garbage that would otherwise contribute to destroying their habitats, to give life to their wings, nests, and flight lines.

Daybreak was on exhibition at the Brittania Art Gallery in Vancouver BC in Spring of 2022.