I find this very beautiful, restful, interesting. I only noticed the coot's shadow, so I don't think the boat shadow is distracting. Are these your hand dyes? The water and feathers are wonderful!

Thanks, and yes they are my hand dyes.  Glad to hear it on the shadow.  I think it shows more in person.  It is on the right in the water.  I also think after quilting it will be more incorporated into the whole.

Here is the original photo.  I left out the shirt trapped under the hatch and cropped the left a bit so the coot wouldn't be too centered.

I love the use of your fabrics and the simplicity of the scene. When you add the quilting, I am sure the depth of the boat will be more pronounced. Beautiful work. 

You were right on to eliminate the shirt...that would make the piece kind of sad or something. I like the peaceful take on the scene. Look forward to quilted and bound!

Great project.  Just a thought  perhaps tule organza on the boat stitched down could give the effect you are looking to achieve.  On the other hand maybe quilting with reflective thread.  I'd try either idea on a scrap rather than chance adding to this without testing it.  This is so great.  Love the feathers on the bird.  The shadow gives depth.  I love the fabrics used in the boat.

Thanks, Lissa.  I hadn't thought of the tulle, so I'll toss that around. I'm working on thread selection and had tossed in some reflective thread to bring out the water quality.  I'll definitely try out some threads and quilting motifs to see what I think might work out best.  Maybe a difference in the quilting motif or thread between the underwater part and above water sections. 

Love this piece, things from nature offer us such great opportunities of inspiration.  

In the tradition of mutual admiration societies, I want to tell you that I love this quilt.  I really liked it the first time I saw it in the Critique forum and like it better every time I see it.