Peregrine Falcon With Chicks

Leading by Example

In 1992 Dave created this piece to depict the growth of a leader. The peregrine falcon keeps a watchful eye over her chicks as they grow, and teaches them from experience and by example to eventually become leaders themselves.

This inspiring work of art is a tribute to everyone who endures and then uses their experience to help others. Like the peregrine chicks, we all start out a little clumsy and may look foolish, but with perseverance we too can grow into as confident and beautiful a creature as the adult falcon.

A favourite among Dave's admirers, this is one of his most magnificent achievements. Every detail seems full of meaning. The falcon's eyes are alert and watchful. The tilt of its head shows concern for its young. Although perched on a rock that is split in half, the falcon's grip is strong and sure, as though its talons are what keeps the rock from breaking in two.

The way the rock encircles the chicks shows their vulnerability and need for protection. The smaller rocks are obstacles to them now, but will seem insignificant once they have grown.

It took Dave years of hard work to be able to give his imagination life in the form of steel art. In a way, Peregrine Falcon With Chicks is a tribute to Dave's own growth as an artist. It stands then as a reminder to us all that, like the chicks, though we may start out clumsy and afraid, we too can grow to become leaders in our own lives.