Pigeons are often overlooked or even disliked, despite being one of Britain’s most common and adaptable birds. Is it their sheer abundance that invites such indifference—or something deeper?
As we grow more disconnected from nature, many people don’t realise how fascinating pigeons really are. Feral pigeons are close relatives of the Rock Dove. Having moved inland, been domesticated, escaped and interbred becoming the diverse urban birds we see today.
It’s curious that while the white dove is admired and symbolic across cultures, the pigeon is routinely dismissed. Perhaps this reflects a broader human tendency to judge unfairly based on appearance or perceived worth.
In my artwork, I aim to restore a sense of individuality and dignity to these birds. Working from my own photographs, I paint each pigeon on its own canvas, capturing its unique colours and personality.
So next time you see a pigeon strutting proudly, maybe it’s thinking, “I’m not just a pigeon—I’m a Rock Dove!”