Loons

I think any time you move to a new place so different than where you’ve been, the flood gates of inspiration can open up. For me, new to the Midwest and Minnesota, I quickly fell for the state bird and symbol of the North, the loon. As of writing this, I have yet to see or hear one in the wild. They don’t seem to frequent the city waterways that I do. But being in a family of outdoor enthusiasts, I know hearing a loon call is right around the corner for me. Anyway, like most people here I fell for the loon and was inspired to explore the bird in glass. My first go, was a simple square suncatcher with a stylized bird and a very fun black and white spotty glass. I liked it but still yearned for something more dynamic and expressive to tell the loon story.

My second loon, in the half-moon shape was designed to do just that. Give the viewer more context into loon life. As I researched the birds, I was drawn to images of mother birds carrying their babies on their backs, still serene lakes, aquatic plants below the surface, and the fish who feed the birds. I felt like I was drawing a comic book as I laid out the illustration. I love the final piece, and this type of storytelling with glass as a medium.

To the third loon: In Minneapolis, the winter of 2025/26 saw an invasion of ICE agents who quite frankly terrorized the city. While we watched neighbors pulled from their cars on street corners, citizens shot and killed, and highschool children teargassed at school, the people of Minneapolis resisted and adopted the loon as a symbol of our community and our power as the people. It was a time I wish had never happened, but that I’ll never forget. I found the strength and beauty of the Resistance Loon irresistible when working on designs. My pill shaped suncatcher is meant to echo that power and strength.

Please enjoy the photos below. If you’re interested purchasing or commissioning a loon. Send me a message!