The idea of ‘familiars’ is a recurring theme in my art. In European folklore, a familiar is a supernatural entity, typically an animal, that offers guidance, protection, or magical abilities to their human companion. As I considered a new piece exploring this concept, I realized I had yet to paint a flamingo – one of my favorite birds and an unlikely pet for anyone, much less a simple Northern European girl. I love their gracefulness. They walk with an assured, entitled demeanor. A royal swagger. And so, I decided to couple this royal guardian with a girl of humble but proud countenance. Perhaps a noble in training herself.