Monkey River – Rowan Bird + Rodney

Rowan Bird and Rodney, chimpanzee
Monkey River, 2026
Tempera and acrylic on stretched canvas
20 x 10 inches 

Market Value: $700.00
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The swirling blue forms made by chimpanzee Rodney were transformed into a more structured composition by Jackson-Mississippi-based artist and designer Rowan Bird. Not surprising, given that Bird’s work includes large-scale stained-glass production and mural painting.

The thick black lines surrounding areas of color in this collaboration function like the leading that holds glass pieces together in traditional architectural window designs. Here, Bird defines a landscape worth exploring, as natural forms begin to take shape—filled with undulating rocks, hills, and flowers.

As a painter, Bird creates expansive landscapes that capture mountains and valleys, and distinct qualities of light and atmosphere. His works have been exhibited regionally at venues including the Pacesetter Gallery in Flowood, Mississippi.

Rodney is a happy chimp and his features match his personality. He has big floppy ears and a large brow ridge that makes him look like the goofy prankster that he is.

About the artwork: The first photo shows the completed collaboration being auctioned. The second shows the original primate painting before Bird added his contributions. Both images depict the same canvas; only the completed artwork is included.