Northern Shovelers

This is my Federal Duck Stamp entry for this year.
Judging was last Friday, and I was elated to watch round one live, broadcast online.
My piece did not make it past round one (5 "OUT" votes) but after seeing the other entries I didn't expect it to. Some really fantastic work this year! Truly amazing paintings. I am not at all upset that my painting didn't go far, considering the paintings that did were so spectacular. My congratulations to those that scored well!

Here is my entry. I think you can tell I struggled with it! I know it has some issues which I have learned from. I've learned a lot about composition since painting this and will try to apply it to future work. It is not the best painting I have ever done but I will try again next year, if I can afford the entry fee. There are some really pretty species to choose from next year!

Acrylic on Masonite board, 9" x 7"