How Hummingbirds & Their Symbolism Fit The Bohemian Vibe
Hummingbirds have symbolism that fits the bohemian vibe.
I realized how popular hummingbirds were when I started selling beaded Hummingbird ornaments from Guatemala, years ago. Otherwise, I would not have known that there was so much interest in them. But WHY is there so much interest in Hummingbirds, especially right now? This is a question that my analytical mind ponders whenever I have an item that is strongly trending, or just enjoying a sustained popularity. Some trends are easy to understand but other ones are perplexing since there seems to be no clear trigger for it.
Here is a list of Reasons I have come to learn:
Natural Aesthetics: Hummingbirds are renowned for their vibrant and iridescent plumage, making them visually striking. Their beauty in nature often translates well into art and figurines, appealing to those who appreciate natural aesthetics.
Symbolism: Hummingbirds are often associated with positive symbolism. They can symbolize joy, love, energy, and even resiliency due to their ability to hover in mid-air. People are drawn to symbols that evoke positive emotions and qualities.
Gardening and Wildlife Enthusiasm: As more people become interested in gardening and wildlife conservation, hummingbirds naturally gain attention. These birds are frequent visitors to gardens with nectar-producing flowers, making them a beloved sight for nature enthusiasts.
Stress Relief: Nature-themed decor, including hummingbird figurines, can provide a sense of tranquility and stress relief. Many people seek to bring elements of nature into their homes as a way to create a calming atmosphere.
Artistic Appeal: Hummingbirds' intricate and delicate appearance makes them a popular subject for artists and artisans. The challenge of capturing their beauty in art or figurines can be a creative and satisfying endeavor.
Gift-Giving: Hummingbird-themed items, including figurines, are often given as gifts. Their positive symbolism and aesthetic appeal make them suitable for various occasions, from birthdays to housewarmings.
Collectibility: Some individuals enjoy collecting figurines and other items related to specific animals or themes. Hummingbird figurines, especially if they are well-crafted or part of a limited collection, can become collectible items.
Awareness and Education: As people become more aware of different species and wildlife, there is a growing interest in learning about and appreciating creatures like hummingbirds. Figurines can serve as educational tools and reminders of the natural world.
Seasonal Appeal: Hummingbirds are often associated with spring and summer, which are seasons when people tend to be more outdoors and engaged with nature. This seasonality can influence the popularity of hummingbird-related items during specific times of the year.
Online Marketplaces: The availability of hummingbird-themed items, including figurines, on online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy, has made them more accessible to a wider audience. However these are some of the more interesting places to look for them
1/ Home Decor Stores: Home decor stores often have a selection of figurines and ornaments, including those featuring hummingbirds. Look for stores specializing in garden or outdoor decor.
2/Craft Stores: Arts and crafts stores sometimes carry figurines, especially if they have a seasonal or nature-themed section.
3/Garden Centers: Nurseries and garden centers frequently stock garden ornaments and decor, including hummingbird figurines, to appeal to gardening enthusiasts.
4/Wildlife or Nature Stores: Specialty stores focusing on wildlife and nature-related products often carry figurines of various animals, including hummingbirds. These are some of my favorites because as I step inside, I am greeted by a symphony of bird songs, the aroma of earthy scents, and a visual feast of nature-inspired art and products. From intricately carved wooden animals to stunning wildlife photography, these stores are treasure troves of authenticity. Frequently there is a plethora of hummingbirds, and I’m immediately transported to a world of enchantment. I find delicate hummingbird figurines and ornaments, each one meticulously crafted to capture the grace and charm of these tiny birds. These stores are like miniature aviaries, offering a haven for hummingbird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
5/Antique Shops: Antique stores sometimes have vintage or collectible hummingbird figurines, which can be particularly interesting for collectors.
6/Specialty Collectible Stores: Stores that focus on collectibles and figurines may have a dedicated section for animal-themed figurines, including hummingbirds.
7/Museum Gift Shops: If you're visiting a museum with a natural history or wildlife focus, check out their gift shop. They often carry educational and nature-themed items, including figurines
Beaded hummingbird ornaments are intricate and beautiful creations that require skill and patience to make. The process involves carefully attaching beads to a base or wireframe to create the shape of a hummingbird.
Here's a simplified overview of how beaded hummingbird ornaments are typically made:
Materials Needed:
Beads: Various colors, sizes, and types of beads are used to create the ornament. Glass seed beads are commonly used due to their small size and versatility.
Wire or Frame: A wireframe or a solid base made of materials like wood, foam, small pieces of crumpled paper, or even paper mache, can serve as the structure for the ornament.
Thread or Wire: Strong and flexible thread or wire is used to string the beads and attach them to the frame.
Needles: Thin beading needles are necessary to thread the beads and pass the thread or wire through tight spaces.
Steps in Making Beaded Hummingbird Ornaments:
Design and Pattern: Before starting, the artisan typically creates or follows a design pattern for the hummingbird ornament. This pattern serves as a guide for the placement of beads.
Preparing the Base: If using a wire frame, it's shaped into the outline of a hummingbird. If using a solid base, it's carved or shaped to resemble the bird's body.
Stringing Beads: The artisan begins by threading beads onto the wire or thread according to the pattern. The beads are carefully selected to achieve the desired colors and patterns for each part of the hummingbird (wings, body, tail, etc.).
Attaching Beads: Beads are attached to the base or wireframe by passing the needle and thread/wire through them. The artisan must ensure the beads are secured tightly to prevent them from coming loose.
Creating Details: Additional beads may be added for eyes, beak, and other intricate details to make the ornament more lifelike.
Shaping and Forming: As the ornament takes shape, the artisan manipulates the wire or base to give the hummingbird its three-dimensional form. This involves bending and shaping the wire as needed.
Finishing Touches: Once the entire hummingbird is beaded and shaped, any loose threads or wires are secured, and the ornament is inspected for any imperfections or gaps.
Hanging Mechanism: If the ornament is intended to be hung, a loop or wire for hanging is attached to the ornament.
Quality Control: The finished ornament is carefully inspected to ensure it meets quality standards. Any necessary adjustments or corrections are made.
Final Steps: Depending on the artisan's preference, the ornament may receive a protective coating or varnish to preserve the beads and add shine.
The process of making beaded hummingbird ornaments requires a high level of precision and attention to detail. Artisans often take great pride in their work, and the final products are not only decorative but also a testament to their craftsmanship and creativity.
It's worth noting that the specific techniques and materials used can vary depending on the artisan's traditions and personal style. Some artists may incorporate additional materials like feathers or textiles into their designs, adding even more depth and texture to the ornaments.
Other Popular Bird Species:
Here is a list of the most popular bird species based on their commonly being featured in figurines and ornaments due to their aesthetic appeal and symbolic significance.
Hummingbirds: As previously mentioned, hummingbirds have been popular due to their vibrant plumage, small size, and graceful appearance. They often symbolize joy, love, and energy.
Cardinals: Cardinals are beloved for their striking red plumage. In many cultures, they symbolize hope, love, and warmth.
Owls: Owls are a symbol of wisdom and knowledge. They often appear in figurines and ornaments, especially in woodland-themed decor.
Peacocks: Known for their stunning tail feathers, peacocks symbolize beauty and pride. They are often featured in elegant and decorative figurines.
Robins: Robins are associated with renewal and the arrival of spring. They are often seen in Christmas ornaments and other seasonal decor.
Eagles: Bald eagles, in particular, are a symbol of strength and freedom. They are commonly featured in patriotic and Americana-themed figurines.
Songbirds: Various species of songbirds, like bluebirds, chickadees, and goldfinches, are popular for their sweet melodies and colorful plumage.
Doves: Doves symbolize peace and love. They are often seen in wedding decor and as a symbol of hope.
Swans: Swans are known for their elegance and grace, making them a popular choice for more formal and romantic figurines.
Penguins: Penguins, with their charming waddle and black-and-white plumage, are popular for both their cuteness and association with the Antarctic.
Flamingos: Known for their vibrant pink color, flamingos are often featured in tropical and beach-themed decor.
Pelicans: Pelicans, with their distinctive bills and coastal habitat, are common in coastal and nautical decor.
Please note that the popularity of bird figurines and ornaments can change over time and may vary by region, culture, and individual tastes. To get the most up-to-date information on popular bird figurines, it's a good idea to explore online marketplaces, visit local stores specializing in home decor, and review current trends in home decorating and collectibles.