Take Flight with These Watercolor Birds by Justin Nordine

With a style unlike any other, this artist captures the beauty of nature tremendously.

In the not too distant past the idea of a tattoo looking like a watercolor painting was nothing but a pipe dream. Thanks to the innovations of some very skilled artists over the last decade or so watercolor tattoos have gone from an anomaly to a common trend. Yet, even with the style's proliferation, one has to take a step back and marvel in awe when they see the work of Justin Nordine.

Watercolor Birds by Justin Nordine
This cute little guy is enjoying his time at a feeder.

Nordine has taken the watercolor style to a whole new level with his beautiful work, especially when it comes to depicting the wonders of the natural world. When gazing at one of his tattoos it's easy to imagine the artist sitting alongside a stream, working with watercolors on an easel, struggling to capture the majesty of the countryside. In order to give you an introduction to Nordine's vast portfolio, we thought it would be best to focus on a very specific segment of his work — his birds.

Watercolor Birds by Justin Nordine
How can you not love this piece?

Watercolor Birds by Justin Nordine
Puffins are some of the cutest birds on Earth.

Considering that he works out of Colorado, undoubtedly one of the most beautiful states in the country, it would be easy for Nordine to focus his tattoo work merely on the nature around him. But there ain't never been a puffin in a landlocked area, and that tattoo is phenomenal, we are more than pleased that Nordine looked beyond the natural beauty of his home state for some of his work.

Watercolor Birds by Justin Nordine
Two birds on the thigh are worth... something something.

Watercolor Birds by Justin Nordine
This piece borders on the abstract, but is still astounding.

Watercolor Birds by Justin Nordine
Just take a second to appreciate the saturation in this glorious bird.

Watercolor Birds by Justin Nordine
Owls are majestic enough on their own, but this vibrant feathered fella is out of this world.

Watercolor Birds by Justin Nordine
Take a look at this bird's mug. He looks mischievous, doesn't he?

Watercolor Birds by Justin Nordine
Another long necked beaut.

Watercolor Birds by Justin Nordine
Just the simplest outline of a bird embellished with some gorgeous colors.

Watercolor Birds by Justin Nordine
A majestic bald eagle

After putting together this gallery of Nordine's work I'm ready to grab my binoculars, head to the great outdoors, and spend the day peeping some of God's most amazing creatures as they take flight around me. Or, you know, go get an awesome watercolor bird of my own from Nordine at The Raw Canvas in Grand Junction, Colorado. Hell, why not go do both?! If you enjoyed Nordine's birds half as much as I have you need to give him a follow on Instagram @justinnordinetattoos