Raven (detail), Mixed Media (2015) by Brad Schwartz

This graphite drawing is based on several reference photos I've found online and in books. I have been fascinated by ravens and crows ever since hearing a piece on NPR about whether or not birds hold funerals1

Ravens and crows are also highly regarded in Native American mythology.

"The raven is a very important figure in most Native American cultures. It is seen as the creator of light and as a trickster figure. As the maker of light, the raven symbolizes the ultimate creator of all things of that which existed before the beginning. As a trickster figure, the raven is seen as a catalyst of mischief and mayhem."3

Maybe I'm drawn to the mysteriousness of the raven or maybe the idea of how some regard them as a messenger of death. What do you think? 

  1. Do Birds Hold Funerals, NPR.com
  2. Other facts about crows and ravens, PBS.com
  3. The Raven in Native American Mythology