Nature: Avian Blossom

~A surrealist-inspired model of a bird fused with nature.~

I've always been fascinated by surrealist sculptures, so I decided to try my hand at it with this MOC. The lower portion of the bird consists of tree-like textures with leaves creating the tail "feathers". Going up the model, the teal leaves transition into dark azure, which form the outer coating of feathers for the bird. The inner coating is then revealed and uses the exposed, dark gray studs of plates to create a fluffy texture.

A major challenge of this build was obtaining a distorted yet organic shape while ensuring stability. To solve this, I created a sturdy, Technic frame that runs through the interior of the model. For the upper body, various Technic liftarms create a truss, while the outer portions are considerably lighter to reduce stress and potential warping.

Dimensions (including overhang): 38x27 studs, Height: 48 bricks.