Keepers of the Glow

About this piece

Three pelicans occupy a pier railing, their distinct postures set against an expansive coral-pink sky and a brilliant low sun. The central bird bends to preen, while the railing and partially visible bait sign anchor the luminous scene in the everyday life of the waterfront.

The story

I framed the three pelicans low in the photograph, leaving the warm sky room to expand above them. One bent its neck into a curve, absorbed in tending its feathers, while the others held their places on the rail. The sun seemed almost close enough to balance above a bill. I liked the plainness of the bait sign beneath that radiance: a working waterfront, with no need to become anything else.