Framed, measuring 23 1/4 X 29 inches this work is an unusual traditional rustic retablo format (plaster on wooden board). It was completed in December,2008 by artist Linda Miller. What follows is a description of the creation and inspiration for this piece. Once again it is a silent tribute to the late Gertie Sennett, Wisconsin poet and friend of the artist."When we moved to our present location, an old schoolhouse and the adjoining four and a half acres were vacant for five years. While the exterior showed new siding, a new roof and a fresh coat of paint, the interior and various outbuildings were in rough shape. The garage was used as a workshop and storage. In the main part of the garage, a barrel stove heated a poorly sealed room, big enough for two cars. The rear portion of the garage had a lift-up door that might have been used to store a riding mower. It had an abandoned gas heater in a rear corner. Before removing the gas heater, I looked inside and found three perfectly preserved bird skeletons. I assume the birds, looking for a warm spot in winter, found their way into the heater through a vent-pipe. As an amateur naturalist, I found the skeletons intriguing. I photographed them before disposing of their bodies. Years later they became the inspiration for this painting."
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