I love birds, too, and only recently have begun to notice cardinals when I'm up in DC. Good for you to honor them and nature, by turning them into art.
Speaking of which, recently, watched a stunning documentary on Netflix, This Strange Rock, that I think you'll enjoy (about the miracle that is life on Earth).
Cheers :)
DC has a special place in my heart since I lived there as a 17 yr old while I did an internship plus so many great museums and so easy to get around, enjoy! Thanks for the documentary recommendation, I'll take a look!