Artist: Lou (Garner) Kelley
Subject: Cardinals by the Waterfall
Date: Circa 1970s-1980s
Medium: Oil on canvas
Canvas Size: approx. 12 x 16
Framed Size: approx. 16 x 20


Description

This oil painting by Lou Kelley depicts a pair of bright red cardinals perched on a flowering branch beside a cascading woodland waterfall. Set within a green forest, the composition balances movement and stillness-flowing water below, quiet watchfulness above.

Kelley's brushwork and saturated color bring warmth and depth to the scene, while the contrast between the birds and the cool greens of the forest creates strong visual impact. The painting feels intimate and symbolic, making it especially appealing for collectors drawn to nature, wildlife, and meaningful imagery.

Signed lower left, the work is housed in a deep black frame that enhances the richness of the colors and gives the piece a finished, contemporary presence.

Symbolism
Cardinals are widely regarded as symbols of hope, love, and spiritual connection, often associated with remembrance and renewal. In American folk and regional art, paired cardinals frequently represent companionship and enduring bonds. The waterfall adds an additional layer of meaning, symbolizing continuity, cleansing, and the passage of time.

Together, these elements give the painting emotional resonance beyond its decorative appeal.

About the Artist
Lou Kelley was an American painter active during the mid-to-late 20th century, known for landscapes, rural scenes, churches, and wildlife subjects. Working in the American regional tradition, Kelley emphasized mood, familiarity, and storytelling over academic realism.

Kelley's paintings are collected today for their nostalgic Americana themes, approachable style, and strong decorative presence, particularly works featuring seasonal landscapes and symbolic wildlife.


Details
Original oil painting (not a print)
Signed by the artist
Nature and wildlife subject
Ready to hang

Keywords (Chairish SEO)
Cardinal painting, bird art, wildlife oil painting, symbolic bird art, waterfall landscape, vintage oil painting, American regional art, signed bird painting, nature wall art, cottage decor


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Painting is in very good condition--frame is not original.

Origin:
United States

Materials & Techniques:
Canvas

Details:
Art Subjects: Animals, Landscape, Botanic
Frame Type: Framed
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
Country of Origin: United States

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Painting is in very good condition--frame is not original.