Love Birds in the Desert: A New Acrylic Inspired by Phoenix’s Unexpected Residents

Stefanie Carson
Dec 28, 2025
2 min read

Acrylic on Canvas | 50” x 40” | $650

Every so often, a piece comes together that feels like a love letter to both place and moment. My newest acrylic painting, titled “Love Birds”, is exactly that — a 50” x 40” burst of desert color, inspired by two feathered visitors that have taken up residence in the tree just outside our home.

Meet the Rosy-faced Lovebirds

The birds featured in this piece are Rosy-faced Lovebirds (Agapornis roseicollis), known for their vivid green feathers and blushing pink faces. While native to arid regions of southwestern Africa, these small parrots have become an unlikely (and increasingly beloved) part of the urban ecosystem here in Phoenix.

Their presence in Arizona began decades ago, when pet birds either escaped or were released. Thanks to our warm climate, they’ve not only survived — they’ve thrived. Today, small flocks of these cheerful lovebirds can be spotted all across the Valley, particularly near palm trees, feeders, and — in my case — the tangled branches of our front yard mesquite.

The Art & Photography Behind the Painting

The composition brings together several of my favorite elements: abstract backgrounds, graffiti-inspired typography, photography, bold brushwork, and a palette pulled directly from our desert sunsets. Layers of spray paint, ink, and acrylic form a saturated backdrop of magenta, orange, and coral — all anchored by a twisted tree branch where the lovebirds perch, side by side.

The word “Love Birds” is hand-lettered across the canvas, playfully nodding to both their species and their affectionate nature. Their close companionship and gentle expressions became the emotional heartbeat of the piece.

Why This Piece Matters to Me

This painting is as much about the birds as it is about the magic of noticing — the quiet beauty that shows up when you're paying attention. These lovebirds are a reminder of how life adapts, how color can bloom where it wasn’t expected, and how even non-native species can become part of a place’s story.

Plus, in a time where the world often feels heavy, there’s something joyful — even defiant — about painting something this bright, this wild, and this full of affection.

Interested in This Piece?

Love Birds is currently available for sale — feel free to reach out via Instagram or email for pricing and purchase details. I’ve included a few versions of the painting in context so you can imagine it in your space.