Sylvan Muse

Greetings of the Midwinter Solstice

2011-12-22T15:47:00.002Z

Greetings of the Midwinter Solstice.
May the year ahead be happy and wonderful!

An Autumn visit to Guisborough

2011-10-06T01:32:00.017+01:00

On one of the gloriously sunny days last week I revisited Guisborough, a beautiful historic town close to Middlesbrough.

The sunlight created a series of curved shadows at the entrance to the ancient Priory.

I strolled round the back of the Priory to view its magnificent arches against the autumn sky.

A secret door set in an old wall enhanced the mood of enchantment and beckoned me to explore.

In the grounds of the Priory there were wonderful shadowy paths, where light and shade revealed strange shapes.

A mysterious poly-tunnel gleamed between the dark trees.

In the distance the distinctive shape of Highcliffe rose from the Forest.

Autumn colours adorned the trees in the mellow sunlight.

Clouds swirled exultantly in the warm breeze.

Closer and closer I drew to Highcliffe as the sun shone through golden foliage.

At the edge of the woods cottages nestled into the hillside.

I chose from the many pathways through Guisborough Forest and was entranced by the dappled light as the path wound and dipped, revealing distant vistas.

As the warm dusk closed in, a peachy-golden glow settled over the land.

September Light

2011-09-06T22:00:00.008+01:00

On the first day of September I went for a walk to revel in the early autumn light. The mellow sun illuminated the path as it led into the Wood.

Deep in the valley, an abundance of fruit clustered among the twigs, and leaves glistened green-gold.

A secret lane wound between berry-laden trees.

Looking back I saw the sun transforming the edge of the grassy bank to gleaming bronze.

Along the edge of the silent Wood, the fields stretched in tranquillity beneath peach coloured skies.

Inspired by Whitesnake - Forevermore!

2011-06-21T02:45:00.012+01:00

YouTube Film by janeyb65 (a person in Newcastle City Hall audience)

Very occasionally I hear a music track that so resonates with me that I know I am going to be playing it non-stop for years. Such is the title track of Whitesnake's 'Forevermore' album.

Last week I saw Whitesnake live for the first time, at Newcastle City Hall, where we also had the wondrous priviledge of meeting David Coverdale backstage! Of all the concerts I've ever been to, this was the absolute best. Whitesnake are everything one could want in a rock band, with each member bringing their own special brilliance, and David Coverdale is a true 'rock god'.

You can see and hear the live performance of Forevermore at the City Hall on the YouTube film above, made by a person in the audience. It's great to be able to re-live the experience of such a fantastic evening! If you can get to see the band live, do - and get the album too!

After the concert towards dawn I was gazing at the trees, listening to Forevermore, and was envisioned to create the painting shown below. First I sketched the idea, then worked on the painting in oil pastel and watercolour over the last few days. I think this is the first time I've been inspired to paint from a music track - there's something so powerful about the song, I felt I just had to.

Neckshund Nexploits at the Botanic Garden!

2011-06-07T23:13:00.004+01:00

Wednesday 1st of June was another nextra special day at the University of Durham Botanic Garden. Once again, Necky Becky travelled all the way from Giraffe World to take part in a story-telling session with Ingrid. This time she brought her beloved neckshund dog Hals with her, and her toddler brother Littl' Nicky too!

They were all very nexcited to arrive at the secret portal behind the Intergalactic Cacti.

During the storytelling Hals got very hungry and decided to pop back home to get some of his favourite biscuits.

He went to the Intergalactic Cacti, but though he tried and tried, he couldn't get the secret portal to Giraffe World to appear!

"Oh dear!" he said to himself. "I'm so very hungry. I wonder if there are any nice biscuits in the Botanic Garden?"

Someone had left the door to the glasshouses a teeny bit open, so he squeezed through into the fresh air.

There were lots of beautiful flowers in the Garden, and Hals sniffed them. "How lovely!" he said. "But not like biscuits ..."

Further along the path he found a big display board. There was plenty of information about trees on it, but no directions to biscuits.

He trotted past the gunnera and stopped for a moment. They looked so huge and the stems were
very prickly-looking, so he decided not to look for biscuits there!

By now he was feeling tired and very hungry indeed. He wondered if Necky Becky had noticed that he was missing. Maybe she would come and look for him. That would be so comforting.

Suddenly Hals came face to face with a very strange looking creature. In the shadows under the trees he couldn't tell if it was a fallen log or a huge monster!
*

He turned and ran, looking over his shoulder to see if it was following him. Faster and faster, his little legs moving so quickly you could hardly see them, until he arrived at a big blue door - the Visitors Centre!

As he stood outside panting, so very tired and thirsty from his mad dash through the garden, one of the ladies in the cafe saw him. She brought him a big bowl of water to drink.

By this time the story-telling had finished, and how pleased Hals was to see Necky Becky and Littl' Nicky running towards him! Guess what Necky Becky had in her pocket? Some of his favourite biscuits!

They all sat by the Intergalactic Cacti and waited for their dad, Raph, to collect them.

Back through the secret portal they go in their family bus, until neckst time!

Necky Becky's dad has his own blog, Raph's Ramblings, where he writes about his thoughts and the family adventures.

A Nextra-terrestrial Visitor at Durham Botanic Garden!

2011-05-19T16:10:00.012+01:00

On Saturday 14th May a small pink giraffe with a suitcase suddenly appeared in the glasshouses at the University of Durham Botanic Garden. Her name is Necky Becky, and she had travelled all the way from a planet called Giraffe World in Camelopardalis Constellation.

The adventures of Necky Becky and her family, the Neckmanns, were the subject of special May Madness story-telling sessions by Ingrid. Necky Becky stood patiently, (well sometimes a little grumpily!), while the stories were told. She did enjoy being admired by all the children and their families though!

After each story there was the opportunity to colour in some pictures of the giraffe characters, and families could take some extra colouring pictures home too.

Necky Becky very helpfully went outside to make sure everyone knew where the entrance to the glasshouse was.

However, she had also heard about the lovely cafe at the Botanic Gardens, and decided to go and visit it by herself.

The temptation of the huge and delicious-looking cakes proved too strong, and she sneaked behind the counter ... Just as she was about to grab a large slice of carrot cake, she was spotted! She ran ...

... all the way down into the Himalayan Dell, where she tried to hide among the Himalayan birches!

One of the main Secret Intergalactic Portals to Giraffe World is arched with birch trees, and we thought maybe Necky Becky was feeling a little homesick. We decided it was time for her to go home.

Ingrid walked with Necky Becky to the entrance to the new woodland area, and there under the birch archway, she was safely transported across the galaxies to her own planet.

Her little neckshund dog, Hals, was nexcitedly waiting for her on the other side. In the distance their family home Necky Knoll House stood welcoming, and Necky Becky thought she could smell mushroom noodle bake cooking! She ran happily all the way home.

You can read more about Necky Becky and her family at Raph's Ramblings.

The Golden Light of Paradise

2011-05-08T02:19:00.005+01:00

Sometimes, the shimmering light turns the trees to gold ...

And the dappled path into the Wood beckons ...

The fruits of the trees are haloed with light - more beautiful than the most exquisite jewellery.

Sometimes ...

Often ...

Always.

The Dreaming Fields of Grey Towers Farm - under threat of development

2011-03-30T22:39:00.011+01:00

As regular readers of this blog will know - I love Middlesbrough! And one of it's chief assets is the outstanding countryside right along it's edge. To the south lies the outlying village of Nunthorpe from whence stretches some of the most beautiful hitherto undeveloped landscape one could imagine. Unspoilt views of rolling fields, woods and copses, all with an intangible atmosphere of specialness - a unique 'genius loci'.

There are many lovely walks around the Nunthorpe area, and one of the best begins (or ends) at Grey Towers Farm Lane. Just off the 'Poole Roundabout' this historic lane is bordered on one side by lush fields and on the other side by Poole Wood. The fields are currently under threat of development - how different would they look if covered in 295 houses!

The photo above shows some of the fields, with their bounding copses and woods. Turning the other way, one looks into Poole Wood, with it's Lake and view across to the historic Grey Towers mansion, once the home of Sir Arthur Dorman. The mansion and it's surrounding lands, now private, were purchased and given 'to the people of Middlesbrough' by an early Middlesbrough mayor, then Alderman Poole, and initially used as a TB sanatorium. Gibson Poole stated that he wanted to preserve from development for all time 'this loveliest of Cleveland's beauty spots'.

The Lake area is an important wildlife site, it's secluded location making it a haven for all kinds of creatures, including bats. If the housing development was constructed just across the Lane, the surface water drainage of the fields would be affected, probably causing a rise in the level of the Lake, destroying habitats.

At the lower end of the Lane, the trees of Poole Wood and 'Horsejump Wood' almost meet, giving a dramatic frame to the spectacular Cleveland skies. There is a secret feel to this area, an undisturbed loveliness, which is too good to lose. The trees of Poole Wood arch protectively over the Lane, like giant bird's wings, as if the Spirit of Place were defending the land.

Stepping beyond one is overawed by the majesty of the landscape. Huge mountainous clouds billow above, as sunbeams break through, illuminating a lone tree. In the distance the Cleveland Hills give an undulating backdrop to this breathtaking scene.

This area is one of Middlesbrough's best assets. An intangible unquantifiable asset, of immeasureable worth and irreplaceable value.

Not an asset that should be packaged up into bundles of 'estimated Council Tax receivable for high Band houses', not to be dug up, mutilated and transformed into just another housing development.

To save this lovely area of countryside would show wisdom, discernment and forward thinking - all attributes highly becoming for a lively and inspirational town (city?) like Middlesbrough.

Further information about the proposed housing development can be viewed here at Greater Nunthorpe org, including how to write letters of objection.

Durham Supermoon

2011-03-21T00:56:00.007Z

When we were out in Durham City on Saturday night, the supermoon shone down on Elvet Bridge as the restaurants emptied.

Brighter than the lights along the River Banks, surpassing the street-lamps ...

Serene and still as the taxis sped by the Old Shire Hall ...

Illuminating Spring buds on filigree branches ...

Beautiful beyond the clouds.

Spring Tree Dance

2011-03-17T14:22:00.006Z

I have just completed this painting, after having laid down the first brushstrokes in 2001! Sometimes it is good to let a painting grow slowly, just like the trees it portrays.

The group of Hornbeams are situated in the University of Durham Botanic Garden, and I have drawn and painted them several times. I love their rhythmic shapes and the way the group interact with each other spatially, with the steep hill beyond. Situated in a deep dell overshadowed by trees, the light has a golden-green hue giving the place a secretive feel. One feels the need to tiptoe by, not to disturb the trees in their Spring revelry!

This is a much larger painting than the one featured in a previous post, measuring around 70 x 50 cm. I used a beautifully textured thick tinted watercolour paper, and waterproof ink to add the linear qualities to the watercolour.

***

NB: As my followers will know, I am highly concerned about the future of our Forests, and will follow with interest the progress of the campaign particularly at Save Our Woods. This article by European Trees about the government panel draws attention to urgent needs.

Unknown Galanthus and the Light of Spring

2011-03-15T00:39:00.011Z

Each year I excitedly anticipate the snowdrops, and these are a particular favourite given by a dear friend. They are larger than most Galanthus, and I wonder if anyone can identify them?

I love the subtle yet defined green markings.

There's something especially appealing about snowdrops in shade - they can look quite magical!

Another unidentified favourite is this little Euphorbia, which glows ruby-like next to Stonecrop.

Myriads of Myosotis have self seeded everywhere, and will soon cover the soil in a cloud of blue. In the light of Spring, even their humble leaves seem to exude an inner gloriousness.

New furry foliage of Stachys lanata 'Primrose Heron' arises in lemon-hued vibrance from last year's winter-washed remains.

Seed-heads of 'Autumn Joy' glow like embers in a shady corner.

Illuminated by the light of Spring, their stems seem to flicker with haloes of fire.

Midnight Celebrations of England's Forests!

2011-02-17T02:04:00.005Z

At around 11pm I read this Guardian article via Twitter 'Forests sell-off abandoned as Cameron orders u-turn.' Could this be true? What did it mean? There was a sudden prolonged flurry of Tweets as forest lovers read the article and pondered it's content. A mood of celebration and wonder grew, and although we were all cautious in assuming too much, there was an overflow and interchange of happiness and gratitude to all who have played a part in campaigning for our public forests.

This response on the Save Our Woods website gives a good analysis, with wise words from Lord Greaves.

I like the Guardian's statement 'In under 3 months the sell-off had united organizations and individuals across the political divide.' Love of our forests has created true, real 'big society' actions!

Outside, the moon shone over the silent trees and a stillness and sense of waiting could be felt in the woods. I was moved to create this little painting to celebrate our forests and our freedom.

Save Our Forests!

2011-02-08T04:31:00.012Z

As my regular readers will know, this is not a political blog. I very rarely speak or even think of politics. But as someone who loves trees and woods, how can I remain silent when the forests of my country are under threat of being sold?

It was with disbelief, then horror, that I first read via Twitter that the government are intending to sell off our Forestry Commission forests. Sell our heritage, our public domain places of solace, inspiration, special family times and memories? Surely this could not be so!

But it is so at this time of writing. For those who would know about the details, the implications and the public's overwhelmingly passionate response to this threat, I direct you to the links at the top of my right sidebar. These will take you to several hard-working campaign sites dedicated to informing the public and saving our forests.

My focus here is on the more 'intangible' emotional and 'spiritual' reasons for opposing this sale.

These special places are vital for our well-being: physical, mental and 'spiritual'. In our stressful materialistic world, we need to regain our sense of wonder, to break free from the obsessions with monetary profit, market forces and measurable assets. For me a walk in the woods is frequently a transcendent experience, as well as an enjoyable form of exercise in fresh air and beautiful surroundings.

How can we quantify the feeling of looking up through light-dappled leaves, that lifting of the spirits, which at the same time brings tears to our eyes? It is not only with our physical senses that we revel in the scent of damp earth, the soaring trunks, the sighing of the wind through branches. Is beauty measurable? What price do we dare to put on imagination, creativity or sense of place?

There is an ancient symbolism in trees and forests that runs through history. It flows through our literature, our art, and our popular culture. How many authors have been inspired by woods! Tolkien, whose descriptions in Lord of the Rings contributed immensely to my own appreciation of trees, Julia Donaldson with her wonderful Gruffalo children's books, and many more.

These are just a few of the reasons why I, along with so many others, am so passionately opposed to the unfair and unnecessary proposals to sell off our forests.

Gateway to a New Year

2011-01-10T00:04:00.005Z

At last I am satisfied that I have finished my painting of the Oak Tree! (See earlier post for beginning of painting).

The Oak, symbol of strength and endurance, stands like a Guardian of the Forests, and I was interested to read that to the early Celts the Oak was a 'tree of doors believed to be a gateway to other worlds'.

I'm very rarely inspired to write poetry, but I felt moved to do so when looking at the finished painting and thinking about the significance to me of this particular tree, it's location, and the beginning of a New Year.

Bison over my Kitchen Sink!

2010-12-27T15:29:00.004Z

Maybe I'd over-indulged on festive fare, but the other evening as I stood by the kitchen sink I could make out the shape of a bison in the iced-over window behind the roller-blind!

Like prehistoric cave paintings, there were other animals too ...

Today they are all gone.

More Midwinter Middlesbrough - Sylvan Season's Greetings!

2010-12-21T19:38:00.004Z

Here is more celebration of the beautiful landscape around Middlesbrough. Some of you mentioned that you would like me to show more images of this area - and as it is one of my favourite painting places, I'm very happy indeed to do so!

Every year I like to produce new Season's Greetings cards to send to friends, and this year I painted the above design. It features the landscape just south of Middlesbrough, looking toward the Cleveland Hills. This is one of my favourite views, with the fields and copses stretching into the distance, and the phenomenal skies one so often sees over this lovely place.

I painted the scene yesterday, on A4 size blue-grey Ingres paper. Firstly I used black waterproof drawing ink, and then I added the white highlights with gouache paint. This is a combination I often use for painting sylvan and garden imagery, as I find it ideal for communicating atmosphere.

I used the above rendering of the image, with an orange layer over the moon, as a temporary Header on this blog yesterday, to celebrate the unique combination of Winter Solstice, Full Moon and Lunar Eclipse!

Season's Greetings to you all! I wish you a lovely holiday and a wonderful year ahead, full of beauty and love and light.

Light in Midwinter Middlesbrough

2010-12-16T18:00:00.009Z

I love Middlesbrough. Not only is it set in some of the most outstandingly beautiful landscapes in the UK, the town itself is a pleasure to visit. I look forward to the walk from the station with it's wonderful architectural surroundings, and one of my favourite routes is past the spacious town hall square on the way to Teesside University.

The above photo was taken a couple of weeks ago, very early one morning when the snows had just begun. It was my first view of this year's tree. As I passed, the sun suddenly came out from behind the looming snow-clouds, shining directly through the star that crowns the tree.

It was a moment of such beauty and hope. May this town and inhabitants, it's industry and excellent inspirational University prosper!

The tree yesterday, lit by the town lights and the waxing moon.

This post is part of OOTS (Out on the Streets), a meme of monthly blog posts featuring public planting aspects of our streets, initiated by Veg Plotting . Do visit her blog, from where you can also visit the other OOTS blog posts.

Food for the Artist's Palate!

2010-12-07T02:46:00.007Z

On these freezing winter nights we particularly enjoy our food - in large quantities! And I like to introduce a sense of whimsical artistry into it's preparation ...

A few years ago I came across these wonderful palette-shaped plates. How could I resist buying them?!

Here the culinary artist's materials are assembled. Pasta is bubbling. Rashers of delicious smokey bacon are sizzling in another pan, while onions, celery, red peppers and banana are chopped. A spoonful of curry powder adds to the colour spectrum on the palette. My favourite Yeo Valley Greek Style Organic joghurt is waiting ...

All the vegetables are thrown with a flourish into the pan and sauteed with the bacon, then the banana to thicken it up towards the end. Arrange the mixture on the palette, garnish with the joghurt ...

From palette to palate! Yum ...

Oak Tree painting in progress

2010-12-01T20:43:00.004Z

A friend just sent me a photo of one of my favourite trees - a majestic old oak tree next to a wonderful Wood. I was immediately inspired to paint it again!

This time I felt moved to paint it at night, in the snow. I have many special memories of this scene, with the oak standing strong, spreading it's branches against the night sky, as the Wood sighs in the breeze beyond. Ivy grows up it's mighty trunk, making intricate criss-cross patterns in the covering of snow.

I'm using mixed media, (oil pastel and watercolour), on very heavy textured watercolour paper. Impulsive with this painting, I didn't stretch the paper first, which doesn't matter as it is so thick! Wanting to continue quickly I draped the painting over the back of two chairs in front of the radiator to dry.

(I'm still working on the previous painting of the Cleveland Hills - I like to let a painting 'stand' for a few days, while I meditate on it to decide what final work needs to be done - otherwise it can be tempting to 'overwork' it!)

Apples of gold under silvery snow

2010-11-30T18:29:00.003Z

We have had much snow here, and I was curious to see how the little tree with the apples of gold was faring. ( See post 'Autumn ends with apples of gold'). Camera in waterproof wrap, I set off through the night blizzard.

The scene was transformed from russets and golds to silver, mauve and deep blue! And though it's branches were bowed under the weight of the snow, the tree still seemed to shine with an inner light. The snow stopped falling and all was still.

Painting in Progress!

2010-11-23T18:59:00.006Z

Here's the promised update on the blank piece of paper! This is how the painting looks today. There is still quite a lot of work to be done on it, particularly in the distant Cleveland Hills, and the foreground and trees details.

The above photo shows the painting yesterday. I usually work the sky first, particularly with watercolour, which is the medium I'm using here. Sometimes I draw the composition in with pencil first, but with this painting I started immediately with the paint.

My aim is to express the exhilaration and sense of wonder the landscape stirs in me, and to celebrate this special place with it's dramatic skies and unique atmosphere.

A Blank Canvas - (or in this case, paper)!

2010-11-16T17:03:00.005Z

Unlike many of my fellow-artist-friends, I LOVE a blank canvas or sheet of paper!

It's that excitement and anticipation of making the first mark, which may be premeditated after many sketches, or just joyous spontaneity.

This piece of work will be based on the landscape around Grey Towers which featured in my blogpost of November 12th. I'll be posting as it develops ...

Autumn ends with apples of gold

2010-11-15T20:23:00.004Z

Has today been the end of our Autumn? A chilly dawn revealed frost, and all around the country people have been saying that Winter is here. But what a glorious finale to the season!

Under cloudless skies, the woods shimmered with the last of the leaves and a profusion of berries.

Secretive paths seemed to beckon, leading beyond screens of twigs to the heart of the woods.

And there I found a beautiful tree, celebrating Autumn with apples of gold.

Wild Winds and Dancing Light

2010-11-12T03:03:00.011Z

The gale force winds and lashing rain early on Thursday morning may not have seemed ideal conditions for a walk, but what exhilaration and inspiration lay ahead!

This wonderful walk begins down Grey Towers Farm Lane, where emerging into wide fields, one sees the distinctive edge of Poole Wood with it's curved trees. Today it is topped with grey scudding clourds and seems both dark and luminous.

Further along, a rainbow rises above the historic Grey Towers mansion.

The track curves round the edge of Jubilee Plantation, where the wind flurries bring rich scents of ploughed earth.

Storm clouds gather over the distant Cleveland Hills, and the young crops shimmer bright green.

A sudden mellowing of the light, and a farm leads the eye between autumn trees.

Ahead, the cottages of Old Nunthorpe village nestle snugly, as clouds race across the ever-changing sky.

A very special walk.

A magical tree - and a new joghurt experience!

2010-10-29T16:45:00.009+01:00

Stepping off the train at Middlesbrough last week, I gloried in the early morning sunshine. It was one of those days when everything feels magical, and your heart sings!

When I passed this car park at the University of Teesside, I had to stop and dig out my camera. The light around the edge of the hedge and plants was so compelling. Then I caught sight of a little tree ...

I don't know what species it is, but bejewelled in light, it had the appearance of a transcendent sylvan being!

******

On a completely different note, something else which has been making me exuberantly happy all week is the wonderful Yeo Valley advert. Pure genius and great fun too! You can view it on their Yeotube channel!!

It's very unusual for me to make a purchase as a result of a TV advert, but I just had to try some Yeo Valley joghurt ... Oh, exquisite yumminess!! I bought two big pots, a Greek style probiotic joghurt, and a vanilla. Unless I'm very self-disciplined, they'll both be finished by this evening! Yeo, Yeo!

Revisiting blogland - and a very special place!

2010-10-11T19:28:00.011+01:00

Hello again, Blogland!

I'm amazed that it is nearly a year since my last post. Suddenly lots of unexpected but welcome creative projects and work cropped up, and I decided to stop blogging completely for a while. Blogging is a bit like eating chocolate for me - either all or nothing!

It has been an amazing year, and one of the best aspects has been re-visiting a very special place. I spoke about it in a post last Autumn, and this year I've been able to spend a lot of time appreciating it's wonderful environment while working on creative projects.

One's vision can go from glorious panoramic views of the Cleveland Hills to winding paths through the woods, leading to a secret circular garden surrounded by tall hedges ...

A tranquil lake hidden in the woods ...

A sylvan lane leading to harvest fields and skies of splendour ...

Pastoral views to a cosy village ...

Stunning cloud-scapes over the historic mansion, Grey Towers ...

Serene skies at dusk, bordered by the long line of Cleveland Hills ...

Otherworldly sunsets over harvest fields ...

Behind a Curtain of Icicles

2010-01-08T03:39:00.007Z

When I opened the curtains of one of the upstairs rooms to look at the snow tonight, the enchanting sight of an outside curtain of huge icicles amazed me. In the orangey-yellow glow of a street light, the scene looked fantastical.

I experimented with the colours a little here to try and express the atmosphere ...

The otherwordly outside seems accentuated by the everyday items indoors, such as the Ikea vases and the clothes-dryer!

I was fascinated by the way the pattern on the net curtain somehow blended in with the condensation on the glass, and the icicles beyond.

The last photo has not been adjusted at all. I could gaze for hours at the jewel-like droplets glistening in the light, and seeing shapes and shadows in this magical-mundane occurrence!

TFE's New Year Celebration of Lights

2010-01-01T23:51:00.012Z

Today I'm taking part in TFE's New Year Celebration of Lights by lighting a candle in honour of persons who have especially influenced my life, and who are no longer on this earth.

Firstly I'm celebrating my beloved boxer - (her blogger name shall be Gudrun!) - who lightened my life for several years. I had to draw her while she was asleep, as animals do not like to be stared at! She often snoozed with her tongue hanging out, which amused us.

The perfect sketching companion, she would sit patiently while I drew or gazed at favourite places in the landscape. These pictures are from a journal in which I made very swift memory drawings of walks and found it helpful as an artist to include myself in the drawings occasionally. Looking at the pictures now very powerfully reminds me of those days, and the special bond which exists between oneself and one's dog.

The second lighting of the candle is to Finnish artist and author Tove Jansson. As a child I absolutely adored her illustrated Moomintroll books, (I still do!), and believe they have had a strong influence on my creative imagination, and the way I perceive nature.

Last year my boyfriend bought me two volumes of her Moomin comic strip originally published in the London Evening News in the 1950's. They are as whimsical and enchanting as her children's books. She had great artistic integrity and refused to allow her work to be used in ways which detracted from it's essence. She is also an inspiration as someone who steadfastly followed her dreams and used her creative talent all her life.

Sylvan Season's Greetings!

2009-12-23T21:01:00.005Z

Greetings of the Season to everyone! I wish you all a very happy holiday, and thank you all for your beautiful and interesting blogs, and your friendship over this year.

The Winter Solstice marked the first anniversary of Sylvan Muse. I was too busy to post for the 21st, though I did manage to look at this wonderful little video of Newgrange. I also think RuneE's Solstice photo is brilliant!

I don't often write poetry, but was inspired to pen this earlier this year - and thought I'd post it to join in with TFE's Christmas poetry event, Santa's Poetry Go-Kart!

From scruffy sketch to finished design - 3D pop-up Christmas cards!

2009-12-06T18:32:00.014Z

The weeks before Christmas are very busy for me as an artist, and I have had very little time for blogging! For this post, I thought you may like to see some of my working methods, with a Christmas theme ...

One of my previous commissions has been to create ranges of 3D pop-up Christmas cards, a task which was very enjoyable and challenging. I began the process in my usual way - by doing a rough spontaneous sketch using biro and cheap felt-pens. (A friend of mine, on seeing the above sketch tentatively asked, "Will the animal on the finished card - er - actually look like a fox?") I hope it does!

The image above is from scans of the finished artwork. I used artist's quality watercolours on heavy watercolour paper - following the traditional method of using no white paint, but using transparent washes to allow the white of the paper to show through for the highlights and white areas.

This design was printed onto both sides of one piece of card, laid out in absolute precision so that when the card is die-cut, scored and folded, little tabs slot into place creating a 3D structure.

This next card, 'Woodland Xmas Eve', was much more complex in structure than the Fox. I began with the scruffy sketch and cut it all out to make a mock up to test the paper engineering design.

Above you can see the separate paintings I made, which all had to be scanned and a proof printed, including lots of little tabs and slots. My next task was to very precisely cut round the proof print, and assemble the card. This was then sent to a company who make die-cutters so that the card printer would be able to cut the cards after they had been printed.

The various components fit together to make a deep box-like structure emulating a hollow tree with a Christmas wreath at the front.

Above is a photo of the finished product.

After cutting out the proofs for many designs, I had blisters on my hands and neck-ache ... But this has been one of my favourite commissions - and I hope you have enjoyed the little journey into the creation of pop-up cards!

You can see all 24 of the 3D Christmas cards by visiting www.giraffegreetings.co.uk (on the site home page, click on the option 3D pop-up Christmas cards).

November Light

2009-11-19T22:38:00.018Z

There is a certain light in the month of November that has always held me in a sense of wonder.

It seems particularly intense around the countryside of County Durham and Cleveland, most especially towards dusk.

Such luminosity of sky as evening falls over the landscape!

Soft high-lights on moss-covered trunks ...

Evening sun playing magically round the edge of twig and branch.

Overcast skies through damp russet bracken.

Looking up steep slopes at silhouetted trees against glowing skies.

The muted colours of a twilight stream.

***

This post also includes a bench - have you noticed it? 'Bench of the Week' was begun by RuneE of Visual Norway. Do visit his beautiful blog, and also the blogs of other participants, including Barbara Martin, PERBS, and Malyss.

November - Looking back and looking forward

2009-11-02T20:57:00.010Z

This time of year has always felt to me like a new beginning. A time for looking back at special times and places, and also for looking forward with excited anticipation.

*
The land has always held a fascination for me. From being very young I have been entranced by the atmosphere of places.

This year I'm celebrating the beginning of November by re-reading parts of an artistic journal I kept several years ago, while painting the landscape at Grey Towers, Nunthorpe.
*

I've included a couple of excerpts here, written after a walk at the end of October.

Though many years have passed since writing those words, the sense of wonder has not. If anything it has intensified. Whoopee!

Writing this blog-post was prompted by reading 'Endless Renewal and Other Things' at Solitary Walker's blog - always an inspiring read! It was through reading this and Nature's Whispers blog that I learned that now is the time of the Celtic New Year.

Durham Statue on the Move

2009-10-29T03:24:00.018Z

Visitors to Durham at dusk on Wednesday may have thought they were imagining things as a headless horseman made his way past the toll near the Market Place.

The much-loved equestrian statue of the 3rd Marquess of Londonderry is on its way to London to be restored.

On Monday, scaffolding was erected around the statue, which was first unveiled in the Market Place in 1861. The Marquess of Londonderry was famous as the builder of the Durham coal port of Seaham Harbour.

Created from electroplated copper by sculptor Signor Raphael Monti, the statue is in need of repair, which will be carried out by London based Rupert Harris Conservation.

Local people are glad that their beloved landmark statue is to be restored. However, there is much concern about its future location.

For nearly 150 years the statue has stood on its plinth in Durham Market Place, but may be moved further down on its return. The depth of feeling is evident in a petition of 5,500 signatures asking that the statue should remain in its original position.

There was a feeling of quiet respect as the statue was prepared to be transported to London. The head was removed for travelling, and as the sun set, people stood by waiting.

The horse seemed to champ at the bit, caged on the transporter.

At last the extraordinary passenger was on the move.

Silence fell, as the huge vehicle carefully turned the corner by St Nicholas' Church.

The people of Durham bid their beloved statue farewell, until its return.

Thank you for your concerned comments, dear bloggy-friends! You can read more about the statue here and here.

Bench of the Week - Houghall

2009-10-24T01:21:00.012+01:00

This week's bench is also featured in my Autumn header, and is from the dim and distant past of last century - 1998! I've had to scan the photos as this was pre-digital for me, the camera used being a little Olympus Trip.

I find as an artist that certain locations recur again and again in my work, and this spot is one of those special places. The view is from the patio doors of the house I lived in while lecturing at Houghall Horticultural College. To me it was magical, and I used to gaze and gaze, and sketch, paint and photograph this wonderful place.

The garden was huge, and led out onto fields and the distant Houghall Woods. The shapes of the hedges fascinated me - I have always loved the light along the edge of hedges backlit by the sun, or moon. There was only one outside light here, and at night the stars shone undiminished by street lighting. Owls called, foxes barked and the air was redolent with the scents of trees.

The bench belonged to the college. I stood it among my tubs, and used it as a kind of focal point leading the eye along the garden. After trying to sit on it once and wobbling fearsomely, I decided it was too rickety to use as a seat, and that it's charm was visual!

In this last photo the bench gleams softly in the evening light and the overgrown Virginia and other creepers take on an Autumn glow.

'Bench of the Week' was started by RuneE of Visual Norway. Other participants include Barbara Martin, PERBS, Malyss, Ackworth Born , Your EG Tour Guide , Dimple and Dina - do visit their blogs to see their Bench of the Week on Fridays.

Hippophae Sunset

2009-10-20T19:28:00.017+01:00

Working all round the clock on artistic exploits has meant that although I haven't had time for blogging recently my awareness of the beauty of our world has been heightened.

Rhythm, texture, light and shade at this time of year is so exultantly inspiring. My hippophae rhamnoides has always fascinated me with its salix-like foliage. It seems to dance before the sunset sky.

If I had time I would love to make a textile embroidery/collage of the wonderful layers of hippophae, dark trees and the glowing sky.

Or an illuminated manuscript illustration with gold and silver leaf ... My mundane garden wall could be a medieval castle parapet!

This could be an expressionistic stained glass dome over a magnificent conservatory ...

Or a small shrub in a tub!

(You can see the hippophae in bud from earlier this year here. )

Bench of the Week - Arm Candy!

2009-08-28T02:05:00.010+01:00

These benches at the University of Durham Botanic Garden reminded me of old paintings of beautiful ladies in historic gowns walking with their beaux in the park!

In the above photo the plant looks as if it is swooning on the arm of the handsome bench.

I've called this one 'Entwined'.

The plant above looks a little shy.

This one is 'Double Dalliance'!

But the last bench looks a little 'nettled' - must have had an argument!

'Bench of the Week' was started by RuneE of Visual Norway. Other participants include Barbara Martin, PERBS, Malyss, Ackworth Born , Your EG Tour Guide and Dina - do visit their blogs to see their Bench of the Week on Fridays.

Bench of the Week - in a sylvan glade

2009-08-07T00:58:00.006+01:00

This week's bench is situated in a sylvan glade of almost ethereal beauty. Coming round the edge of the surrounding trees the beholder is entranced by the light, the jewel-like greens and the delicacy of the acers set among tall dark conifers.

Your feet brush softly through the daisy-rich grass as you head for the bench set back among the trees. Hush! Do not disturb the tranquillity, make no sudden sound against the background hum of bees.

Your seat is comfortable. It's high back beckons you to rest, to lean back - maybe to sleep among the trees in this secret place. Sweet slumber ...

*
*

(The sylvan glade is at Thorp Perrow Arboretum, North Yorkshire. Situated near Bedale, it is a very favourite place of mine, to wander long among the trees imbibing the atmosphere and enchantment.)

'Bench of the Week' was started by RuneE of Visual Norway. Other participants include Barbara Martin, PERBS, Malyss, and Ackworth Born - do visit their blogs to see their Bench of the Week on Fridays! This week we also have a new participant, Monica the Garden Faerie!

Sylvan Mystery revealed!

2009-08-04T22:45:00.006+01:00

Yes - my vision of the enchanted forest was in a pan of chocolate sauce!

I was astounded when I noticed it - my companions were highly amused ...

So, the next time you are in a kitchen - behold! There may be a whole world of mystery beyond the culinary delights ...

Thank you everyone for your comments and suggestions!

(NB: For those who are interested in Photoshop, I straightened up the curve of the pan on the first picture, and on both the images darkened the colours using the adjust highlights feature.)

Sylvan Mystery!

2009-08-02T01:59:00.004+01:00

The sylvan muse can inspire anywhere! Here is a little mystery for you to ponder ...

What do you think inspired/is the source of these two mysterious sylvan scenes? (They are not paintings). I'll be very interested to read your answers in comments!

The answer will be in my next blog post ...

(PS, I will be posting benches again on Fridays - I've had lots of other artistic activity to finish recently!)

Durham's Fallen Angel Hotel

2009-07-22T00:37:00.024+01:00

Just a few yards up from the little bench/Dun Cow is Durham's recently opened Fallen Angel Hotel. Created and owned by entrepreneur John Marshall, who founded the Durham Pine furniture chain, the Fallen Angel is an imaginative and unusual place.

John Marshall calls it a Restaurant with Rooms, and says in the brochure that it is really a reflection of his life.

I recently visited and had a wonderful evening of exquisite food and a tour of the amazing rooms.

John writes, 'The rooms are a journey of fantasy and adventure and reflect my feeling that people should give themselves permission to live their dreams, to think big and to be outrageous.'

I have posted photos of some of my favourite rooms. Above and below is the luxurious Edwardian Express room. The ingenious ensuite bathroom is in a constructed railway carriage!

Another sumptious room is the Cruella. Lavishly decorated with black velvet and diamante is has quite a Gothic feel.

For a complete contrast, the Russian Bride suite is light and airy, in tranquil whites and creams.

Taking up the entire top floor, it has a hand carved bed, and a beautiful sitting room area.

I like the serene views from the windows.

The next room I visited was a real surprise ...

The Sci Fi room - complete with Dalek!

Visit the ensuite, and you might open the door and find yourself in another world!

I love the imaginative quality of this hotel, and admire John Marshall for creating it. I'm inspired by the statement he has written in his brochure, 'Be bold, be brave and give yourself permission to break free from convention.'

You can see more of the hotel at http://www.fallenangelhotel.com/
*
Other great places to visit in Durham: the beautiful gardens of Crook Hall, and for delicious food prepared on the premises, click here for favourite Italian restaurant Ristorante San Marco.

Bench of the Week - A lively little bench!

2009-07-17T02:50:00.006+01:00

This week's bench is situated outside the picturesque Dun Cow pub in the centre of Durham City.

It is just the right size to fit into the corner under the window. A lively little bench it must be - obviously needing to be tethered outside the pub, like dogs sometimes are, and horses were in the old days!

There's just enough slack on the chain for it to jump up playfully at passersby, but not to run off down the road visiting other benches.

It seemed quite docile as I walked past!

Hippophae shapes

2009-07-08T21:18:00.008+01:00

Shape and form, light and shade fascinate me in the garden. The soft rounded little mounds of moss on the wall contrast with the angular shapes of the hippophae rhamnoides. After the rain, all is gleaming.

These photos of the budding hippophae were taken in the spring. Again there is the contrast with the rounded buds and the long slender thorns.

There is a jewel-like quality to the buds seen against the darker background.

I like the defiant exuberance of these criss-crossing branches against the spring sky.

Hippophae rhamnoides can grow to a very large shrub, and is often used as hedging in seaside areas. Mine is in a large tub, which I have positioned behind this wall, as I like the pattern of the mossy angles of the brickwork with the triangular shapes of the hippophae. Behind is a forsythia in spring bloom, also in a tub.

Now it is summer, and yet more contrast with the slender silvery willow-like foliage of the hippophae. What revelry!

Bench of the Week - Elegant Bench

2009-07-05T00:26:00.008+01:00

My bench for this week's 'Bench of the Week', (a day late!), is a slender bench in Moorbank Botanic Garden, Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

I thought how peaceful and graceful it looked, in this green-and-white area of the garden. Rather delicate too ...

It was only when zooming in on my photos on the computer that I realized there is only one arm-rest. Maybe it is a chaise-longue sort of bench for elegantly reclining on!

'Bench of the Week' was started by RuneE of Visual Norway. Other participants include Barbara Martin, PERBS, Malyss, Ackworth Born and Pacey - do visit their blogs to see their Bench of the Week on Fridays!

Another from the inch of soil!

2009-06-30T17:37:00.001+01:00

Still intrigued by backgrounds and surface pattern (see previous bench post), I took this June photo of my 'Garden in an Inch of Soil'. I've never been a fan of tarmac, but the pink chippings in the road surface do go rather well with the pink spiraea blooms!

The spiraea is (I think!) 'Goldflame', and next to it is my favourite Stachys byzantina 'Primrose Heron' and budding Sedum 'Autumn Joy'. All thriving in the one-inch deep flowerbed over concrete!

Bench(es) of the Week: Abstractions!

2009-06-26T23:37:00.010+01:00

Since participating in Bench of the Week each Friday, I've starting actually looking at benches instead of just sitting on them occasionally! I noticed this group of benches in the University of Durham Botanic Garden. Despite having sat on them on numerous occasions I had never realised that they are nearly all different!

This is my favourite. I love the 'stressed' effect! The timbers are also quite rounded at the edges.

On this bench the timbers are more angular, and the 'stressed' effect subtly different.

I took a close-up of the timber and found the texture and colours fascinating. I like the way they contrast with the out-of-focus pebbles behind the bench.

On this paler bench the grain of the wood is so very different from the previous !

I experimented with focussing on the background pebbles instead of the wood, which to me gives the effect of the pebbles seeming to be in front of the timber!

On this shot I was interested in the texture and the way the grain of the wood runs at a different angle to the cut of the timber.

This final shot is my favourite! It is of the seating timbers, showing the greenish algae(?) covering on the paving slabs under the bench. There are little wavy lines where I presume snails have been wandering around! I love the contrast in colours and the angular lines of the grain of the wood versus the wiggly lines on the stone!
*

I was inspired to look at abstractions by a photo of roofing tiles on DianeC's blog Sabino Canyon: the post was some days ago and you can see it here.

Further along the North Bailey - a tour of Ristorante San Marco, my best favourite of restaurants in Durham City!

2009-06-23T17:18:00.019+01:00

After admiring the views of Durham Cathedral and River from the benches we have visited, you may well be hungry!
*
A little further along the North Bailey from the previous bench you will find our favourite Durham restaurant - Ristorante San Marco.

Owner restaurateur Emidio (pictured on the left, with waiter Franco on the right), offers a warm welcome to the many local people and tourists who frequent San Marco. A popular Italian restaurant with local people, students and tourists, word of mouth brings customers back again and again!

A small friendly restaurant, the tables are close enough for ambience, yet spaced apart enough for privacy. The upholstered seats are comfortable, (very important after all those hard benches!), the wines are good, and the food - absolutely superb!

There is a glorious range of starters. My ultimate favourites are the homemade soups, most especially the mushroom - the best I've ever tasted! Other delicious starters are the Antipasto All'Italiana and the Caprese Salad. Oh - and the bread is home-made and out-of-this-world!

The main courses are mouth-watering, ranging from pastas and pizzas to chicken, seafood and steak. I adore the Pollo Valdostana, (tomato, cheese and asparagus), the Fettuccine Diavola and the Pollo San Marco (Cream, Tomato, Dijon Mustard with King Prawns finished with Brandy).

Chef Paul is a genius! You can catch glimpses of him deftly creating his masterpieces through the kitchen door, which is always open. Pizza-chef David makes pizza just as it should be - with plenty of topping!

Before we make our way to the door, would you like to hear about the sweets? Or is that too cruelly tempting? Oh - alright ... there's manager Tom's homemade Tiramisu - (melt-in-the-mouth luxury), homemade Creme Caramel with it's subtlety of flavour, and exquisite homemade Bread-and-butter Pudding, plus many more delights!

Now thoroughly revitalized for another stroll, you can return along the winding old street to the River, or head down Saddler Street to the historic centre of Durham ...

NB: San Marco is open Mondays-Saturdays 11am-2pm and 5pm-9.45pm. (Closed Sundays) Telephone: 0191 384 6777. Website: Ristorante San Marco Durham.

Bench of the Week - Enclosed Garden

2009-06-19T03:24:00.010+01:00

I discovered this secluded haven of tranquillity last week.

Coming up from Durham Riverbanks onto South Bailey, you can see a historic church ahead. This is St Mary-le-Bow and now houses the Durham Heritage Centre and Museum.

I must have walked past hundreds of times and never looked through the railings. Such a beautiful example of a peaceful enclosed garden in the shade!

How tranquil one's thoughts could be, sitting quietly among the gently-coloured plants.

A serene start to the afternoon - now it's time to stroll down into Durham City!
*

Edges of Hedges!

2009-06-15T23:55:00.019+01:00

Browsing through recent photos I'd taken of Moorbank Botanic Garden set me thinking about a recurring 'motif' of subject matter which inspires me: light around the edges of hedges!

I remembered the above painting from 1998, of copperbeeches behind a low hedge at Houghall College, Durham.

Moorbank Botanic Garden has a magnificent copperbeech hedge, rising majestically behind a lower hedge of green. How could one ever have enough of such wonderful subject matter!

The contrast between light and shade, and the complementary colours of yellow-green and purple-red fascinate me, as well as the abstract qualities of the shapes of the hedges.

And the atmosphere ...

Gaps in hedges always intrigue me, as if they are leading somewhere magical.
*
The painting below is of the view I had while living at Houghall College in 1998. The hedges seemed to flow down the slope, accentuating the gateway which led to fields and mysterious woods topped by billowing clouds.

Ten years prior to this I was lucky enough to live in another beautiful location. Deep in the woods grew a circular hedge which had formerly sheltered a rose garden. Now overgrown, it had a wonderful atmosphere, and I was entranced by the light along the edge of the yew hedge.

Do any of you fellow bloggers have a particular feature of the landscape or gardens which has fascinated you over the years?

Bench of the Week 5: Durham Riverbanks

2009-06-12T03:15:00.008+01:00

Another Durham bench this week. Standing on the bridge, gazing at the view over the river and towards the Cathedral, I was not at first aware of the presence of a bench! Can you spot it?

Here it is - a beautiful arched bench of weathered stone!

I do not know it's history - I will add it to the post if I learn anything. Since taking the photo I have noticed that it is a very popular seat. This is not surprising as it commands a wonderful view of the River, and must be a prime spot for watching the rowing for which Durham is well-known.

Bench of the Week was begun by RuneE of Visual Norway. Do visit his beautiful blog and see what intriguing bench is there each Friday. Other regular participants include: Barbara Martin, PERBS , Malyss and Ackworth Born.

Pure Gold

2009-06-08T22:38:00.011+01:00

Azalea 'Klondyke' - pure gold outside my window.

Purchased around 12 years ago from Thorp Perrow Arboretum, this lovely Azalea has been potted on and on into bigger tubs.

The corner of the garden is in shadow most of the day. Here basking in the evening sunshine with 'Klondyke' are hostas, ferns, skimmia and the little mauve Cymbelaria muralis.

Earlier flowers still in bud - and the beginning of the perfume of paradise.

A last lingering golden gaze before sundown.

Bench of the Week - Front Seat at the Dance of the Gunnera!

2009-06-06T02:41:00.005+01:00

This week's bench is at the Moorbank Botanic Garden of Newcastle University. What a prime location from which to watch the Dance of the Gunnera!

Bench of the Week was begun by RuneE of Visual Norway. Do visit his blog to see his amazingly beautiful bench. Other interesting bench posts can be found on the blogs of: Barbara Martin, PERBS, Malyss, Gerald England and Mad Aunt Bernard.

Dance of the Gunnera

2009-06-04T02:51:00.012+01:00

I have been watching the Gunnera manicata grow at the Durham University Botanic Garden.

Today the light was shining through the huge leaves.

As they reach up to the light, the spiky stems gleam.

Emerging leaves like dancers' hands ...

"Yoo-hoo, I'm here!"

Sometimes merry-looking in dance ...

Or sober green and silver with Anthriscus.

And here, at Newcastle's Moorbank Botanic Garden, a complementary green umbrella to the brilliant red poppy.

Happy Birthday Shady Gardener 4th June!!

Bench of the Week - Durham

2009-05-29T02:27:00.006+01:00

This week's bench is at the back of Durham Cathedral overlooking the river and it's sylvan banks. The old fashioned serpent design on the metalwork fits in well with the weathered stonework of the ancient walls.

Along the riverbanks one gets glimpses of ivy-clad trees. Since taking these photographs a few weeks ago, the foliage has grown, obscuring much of the view.

An occasional shaft of sunlight illuminates a jewel-green lawn, contrasting strikingly with the pink walls of the riverside building.

The atmosphere all around is of tranquillity steeped in history.

Bench of the Week has been begun by RuneE of Visual Norway. Do visit his beautiful blog and the other participants of Bench of the Week!

Gardening in an inch of soil

2009-05-26T00:13:00.011+01:00

Part of our garden is over a concrete area, around which the edging bricks are raised approximately an inch. This means there is only an inch of soil ...

I have planted the area with two types of plants: those that are happy in shallow soil, and those that happened to be spare at the time of planting!!

The star at the front of the first photo is Uncinia rubra, a lovely little grass which glows like rubies in the sunlight.

The pale leaves catching the light behind the Sedum are Lychnis coronaria, soon to be bearing vivid magenta flowers.

Above is a striking little Euphorbia. Does anyone know which it is? I have divided it several times over the years.

Cornus alba seems to like the site! This was one of several cuttings from a friend - probably 'Spaethii'. The leaves are a wonderfully bright yellow.

Melissa officinalis makes a bright lemon-scented statement next to forget-me-nots. I shake the seed-heads of these all over the borders to get lovely clouds of blue flowers in the spring.

One of many self-seeded spiraea glows in the evening sunshine. This is appropriately named 'Goldflame'!

As the evening deepens, Melissa and Myosotis merge into the shadows. Stachys byzantina 'Primrose Heron' lifts pale downy foliage to the sun, and Uncinia joins its ruby glow with the incandescent fire of 'Goldflame'.

Bench of the Week

2009-05-22T13:20:00.006+01:00

For today's 'Bench of the Week' I have chosen one of my very favourite seats in the Botanic Garden. Nestling in a sheltered glade screened by tall conifers, it is perfect for basking in the afternoon sun. There is no panoramic view here, the site lends itself to inward musing, creative ideas and solitary bliss.

How happily the bench appears to the visitor coming up from the Woodland Garden! Even on an overcast day it seems to shine and exude a warm welcome.

This photo was taken last summer, when the lovely Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' was in flower. Something to look forward to very soon!

Bench of the Week was begun by RuneE of Visual Norway. Do visit his wonderful blog and also Barbara Martin, who first introduced me to the theme.

Secret Bluebell Woods

2009-05-14T23:18:00.008+01:00

A narrow path leads into the bluebell woods.

Carpets of blue go on for ever among the trees.

*
All is silent.

The path curves on and up to a faery hill.

Bedazzled by shafts of sunlight, dark shadows, illuminated blooms.

Zaluzianskya

2009-05-10T22:15:00.013+01:00

With delicate beauty and evening fragrance redolent of paradise ... Zaluzianskya!
*
Each flower so perfect, as if tenderly sculpted from the finest porcelain.

Tiny buds open as the evening sun bids farewell.
*

By the front door, its perfume offers a rapturous greeting and fills the heart with delight.

Flying through the air on a Magic Bench?

2009-05-06T21:42:00.004+01:00

Over the Bank Holiday weekend I decided, as promised, to try out the Magic Bench! I had already had a large lunch with pleasant company, so when I sneaked off to the wood, I was not hungry. The feast could wait - but the ride to a magic land?

Tentatively I sat down.

I saw the pattern of shadows of new leaves moving in the breeze. I felt the grain of the wood. I waited ...

Oh! A small green caterpillar hoisted itself up over the edge of the bench-table and began rippling along the surface. So gracefully undulating - a perfect ballet.

Was this the magic, then? Transformation? To be reminded that caterpillars become beautiful butterflies?

"But this caterpillar is wonderful now!" I exclaimed.

Satisfied, I arose from the bench as the caterpillar continued its journey and the evening sun shone on our own magical world.

The Magic Bench

2009-05-02T02:44:00.006+01:00

This is my first 'Bench of the Week' picture! RuneE, a photographer from Norway, has begun posting photos of benches on Fridays - this week his bench is on his blog Visual Norway Extended. RuneE's photoblogs were first introduced to me over at Barbara Martin.

I have called my bench The Magic Bench.

Coming down the slope into the woods, I saw it gleaming in the evening sunlight. Much more than just a humble picnic-table-with-benches-attached, it has a sense of other wordliness. I get the feeling that if I sat down, a feast would appear on the table, the whole thing would rise up into the air, and I would be whisked away to a magic land ...

Maybe I read too many Rupert the Bear annuals!

Should I try it? If it happens, and they have the Internet where I am transported to, I will let you know!

Woodland Light

2009-04-21T03:44:00.015+01:00

I am entranced with the light in the Woodland Garden.

On some days clear sunlight illuminates the blooms, outlining each bejewelled twig.

When mist enfolds the wood, the camellia shines softly.

Today the evening sun dapples the undergrowth. Tiny curls reach up, unfurling to the spring summons.

A glowing woodland crown waits hidden beneath the trees.

Daffodils dance round the radiant Prunus.

The path is golden.

Hold Your Ground!

2009-04-11T03:29:00.024+01:00

A couple of weeks ago I came across a quote, 'Today's mighty oak is just yesterday's nut that held its ground!'

I remembered it because it made me laugh and also presents a deep and pertinent truth. It is especially relevant in today's difficult times.It set me thinking about when you have goals, visions that take a tremendous amount of effort to achieve, that are so much bigger than your self and your meagre resources.

How energizing it is to get encouragement and affirmation! And how different from being told to be 'realistic' and let go of cherished dreams. I feel such tremendous gratitude toward those who have been great sources of strength to me over the years.

Last year I received a tiny oak tree rescued from a friend's garden. It would have been thrown away in their big clear-up, so she gave it to me.

I planted it safely in an old earthenware pot. (Yesterday's nut in a cracked pot!)

It looked so small and vulnerable, yet I can imagine gazing up at it in years to come ...

One day it will be a mighty oak!

Believe in your dreams, friends ...

... and hold your ground!

Durham City's Hidden Jewel

2009-04-05T20:56:00.016+01:00

The spring sun shone from a perfect blue sky as I entered the gardens of Crook Hall in the heart of Durham City. It had been several months since my last visit, and I had been looking forward to renewing my acquaintance with this lovely place.

The view above shows the Georgian and Jacobean parts of the Hall, from the Walled Garden with its spring flowers. (Crook Hall's excellent website gives interesting information about the Hall and its history.)

I paused in the Cathedral Garden, where stunning views of Durham Cathedral are echoed in the arched gateways and clipped hedge. A distinctive arched seat continues the theme.

Walking through the arched gateway into the Shakespeare Garden, I looked back. How I marvelled at the light shining ethereally onto a statue, and illuminating the white flowers in the green shade!

Further along, a little piper played among the ivy and pale daffodils.

Emerging through another dark hedgeway into the sunlit orchard, my eyes were led along the curved path through the trees. In the distance a statue provided a serene focal point.

The Moat Pool reflected the cerulean sky and countless daffodils fringed the water's edge.

In the Woodland Garden silver and gold gleamed in secret glades.

An enchantingly beautiful magnolia raised its blooms to the heavens.

I soaked up the sun in front of the warm walls of the old Hall, wondering how many people must have done the same after countless cold winters!

A last view of historic Durham Cathedral before walking back into the city!

Misty Moonwatch

2009-04-03T21:04:00.012+01:00

A group of people gathered at the Botanic Garden yesterday evening for a Moonwatch. This year is the International Year of Astronomy, (so I've just discovered!), and this was an associated activity.

It had been a glorious sunny day with clear blue skies. However, as telescopes were being set up a mist drifted in and obscured the heavens ...

The intention had been to look at the moon through the telescopes. This was not to be! By the close of the evening the mist was so thick we could hardly see beyond the glasshouses. How glad we were that the cafe had specially opened to serve hot chocolate, tea and coffee!

And another treat was in store ...

Peter Edwards from the Physics Department of the University of Durham gave a marvellously inspiring talk about astronomy and the universe.

His presentation included a simulated journey through real space, past stars, nebulae and galaxies. I found it awe-inspiring to learn that if you took every grain of sand from every beach and every desert on Earth, you would have an idea of how many stars there are in the universe!

Contemplating all this later, I thought how it could have made my life and everyone or everything I know and care about seem insignificant. Not so - it had the opposite effect ... The awesome beauty and vastness of the universe magnified for me the infinite value of all those things on earth we hold dear. The ordinary-extraordinariness of love and life.

In Praise of Primrose Heron

2009-04-02T00:39:00.010+01:00

A favourite plant of mine is Stachys lanata 'Primrose Heron', (or Stachys byzantina since it has had its name changed). Here in the UK the more usual silver form is known as Lambs' Lugs (Lambs' Ears!). I have only seen Primrose Heron in a garden centre once, many years ago. Of course, I had to have it!
*
The above photo taken earlier today shows it in soft sunshine, which illuminates its buttery coloured leaves. It looks good planted among darker foliage; here it is next to an escallonia, with the dark shadow of a juniper in the background, and sedum. The forget-me-nots have just opened today and add a nice contrast to the yellow.

The sun went behind clouds at around 6 pm, and the colours changed to more bluish hues. Whatever the light conditions, Primrose Heron seems to retain a striking luminosity.

I love the furry texture - you can see why it has the Lambs' Ears nickname! In each leaf there is such a variety of colour, from white, cream and yellow to green, which all changes depending on the direction of the light.
*
Later in the year it will have mauvish flower-spikes, and usually sprawls over the edge of the lawn, which I rather like!

I love to plant it next to very different foliage. Here the red grass Uncinia rubra gives such an exciting contrast of colour, texture and shape.

I'd be interested to know if any of you fellow-bloggers have it - I've never actually seen it in anyone else's garden!

'What do the trees look like in your area?'

2009-03-30T11:58:00.011+01:00

I have been entranced with Sabino Canyon's images of cacti mingled with deciduous trees in their spring foliage. Diane C. asks us the question 'What do the trees look like in your area?' Here is my response.

The magpie in the above image was an instance of serendipity (also a recent topic of Diane's!) I had not noticed it perch in the sunlit twigs as I took the photograph.

Emerging from the shade of the conifers, you meet the softly coloured trunks of birches.

A tenacious leaf from yesteryear shines among the twigs of a young birch in bud.

Laugh in delight at the wriggly branches of Corylus contorta cascading before red dogwood stems!

Pleached limes make a bold ink-like statement across the March sky.

As the sun lowers its light, the papery bark of Prunus serrula gleams like a mystic aura among pale twigs.

A Spring surge of shimmering green and vermilion!

Nature's Sculptures

2009-03-28T00:32:00.008Z

It was late afternoon when I stepped into the glasshouse and saw the new cacti. Low shafts of sunlight gleamed through the semi-translucent forms of the nearest plants.

I had never seen anything like these before!

A whole collection has been donated to the Botanic Garden, and is waiting on trestles to be labelled and arranged.

My limited knowledge of cacti is on this occasion fortuitous. Sometimes it is better to think in shape and form rather than species ...

... To revel in texture, light and shade ...

To marvel at the rhythm of exquisite pattern ...

I look back as I leave the glasshouse, not wishing to miss a last sun-edged glimpse of these extraordinary beings.

The Light of Spring

2009-03-20T00:09:00.010Z

Yesterday afternoon at the Botanic Garden I prepared for the evening Launch of my Cactus House Mural. It had been an idyllic spring day, and the lingering afternoon sun glowed through the edges of leaf and flower.

What had earlier seemed a plastic tub of lovely 'Early Harvest' tulips took on the form of transcendent fire ...

I put aside my work and followed the light down to the Woodland Garden. As the path curved by the rhododendrons the pink Acer came into view. Each of its twigs was haloed, holding me spellbound.

Young birches drew me in among their papery trunks, their branches crossed gracefully by the quiet water channel.

Beyond the dell, mellow sunlight gleamed green-gold on mighty trees.

I stepped back onto the path and headed for a very special evening.

Sharing Enthusiasm

2009-03-14T13:23:00.008Z

Yesterday evening I watched an inspirational programme on BBC2 entitled 'The Plant Addicts'. Carol Klein took us on a tour visiting many of her fellow plant addicts and their gardens.

The passion and enthusiasm of these wonderful people was catching! I was particularly moved by something Roy Lancaster said about what plants have meant to him. His words inspired me to create the piece below regarding my own 'raison d'etre' ...

I believe it is important to keep a focus on your 'dream', especially in these dirge-dreary days of recession. What makes your heart sing?

For me, my creativity is my 'essence of being' and the sylvan and gardens my 'muse'.

It was good to share in the enthusiasm and passion of Carol and her friends on the programme. I noted some of the words and phrases that were spoken (almost sang!) in relation to plants:

"Enchanted with them ..."

"Poetry ..."

"Way of life ..."

"Falling in love ..."

"A romance with plants ..."

"Devotion ..."

"I don't know what it is, it's magical really ..."

Plants have a fascination. They exude an almost palpable energy - just being among them transfers some of this to one's own self too.

From that magical feeling at dawn to the peaceful mellow tones of dusk, plants bring well-being and fulfillment.

I'd like to say a huge 'thank you' to Carol Klein and her friends for reminding me of this, and for their contagious passion, enthusiasm and life-enhancing positivity!

Completed!

2009-03-02T00:20:00.028Z

The Cactus House Mural is completed! I thought I'd start the post with the finished mural, and then go back in time to when I started today's session, (Sunday).

When I arrived at the glasshouse the sun was shining in, so I had to wear sunglasses!

Stepping back to survey the scene, I noticed what appeared to be a line of dots in the distance ...

A camel train! Where had they come from?

My paintbrush - at the request of Mike Hughes, Head Gardener! They will be a useful addition when schools visit the garden, to talk about the desert habitat and how camels store water.

Having painted in the camels, I turned my attention to the Echinopsis pachanoi, adding more detail and definition to the flowers, and multitudes of spines.

The Cereus jamacaru also got its share of spines.

I wasn't quite satisfied with the Echinocactus grusonii. Their forms were OK, but they wanted a little more subtlety in the treatment.

That's better! (The colour is entirely different because between these two photos being taken it had gone dark and I had switched the lights on, affecting the colour on the photos). I had softened the contours and added a goldish 'halo' to indicate the fine spines.

The Opuntia robusta needed a little more shadowing ...

I added more deeper colour in places to achieve the desired effect.

I also worked into the rocks a little more to give the sense of depth.

Before deciding definitely that the mural was finished, I went along section by section, starting with the Aloe dichotoma. I had worked a little more detail into the leaves earlier, and was satisfied. The Agave americana were also ready.

Next I checked over the Cereus jamacaru.

All was satisfactory there, and also with the Aloe buhrii.

The Echinocactus grusonii were finished.

The Opuntia robusta was now complete, with its many spines indicated in the paint.

Lastly the Echinopsis pachanoi, and the foreground rocks - all finished to my satisfaction!

Creating the Cactus House Mural has been a tremendously enjoyable experience. I have found the artwork challenging and fulfilling, and the studio setting fantastic. Working next to a large raised pond in which Victoria amazonica has been flowering almost nightly has been unforgettable. The sound of crickets chirping has added to the magic of the moment.

The mural will be installed in the Cactus House imminently.

Floral Details

2009-03-01T00:37:00.017Z

On arriving at the Botanic Garden today, (Saturday), I saw my first daffodils of the year! Maybe it is time to change to my Spring header tomorrow for March ...

Returning to my flowering cacti ... I had left the flowers on the Echinopsis in a preliminary stage yesterday, so worked on them gradually to build up the form and detail.

I added some pale colours for the trumpet-like centre and shaped the petals.

After those had dried, I added darker colours of subdued pink and greens for the stem shadows and the petals.

The Agave americana and Aloe buhrii also needed more detail. On the above photo the background mountains behind these plants are sketchy. After building up the details on the plants, I worked into the mountains.

A stage of detail was added to the Aloe buhrii.

I added further definition to the flowers and the leaves. The ground was also darkened around the plant, to give more emphasis.

Above, the Agave americana was just sketched in. The background mountain is also very 'loose'.

Here the plants have been considerably worked into, and contours more defined in the mountain.

Lastly for the day, I added shading and form to the Opuntia robusta.

You can see on the above photo that I have firmed up the mountains behind the Echinopsis, and also the two distant cacti.

All that remains to do now is to put in a few finishing touches of detail!
Cactus House Mural, University of Durham Botanic Garden.

Flowers in the Desert

2009-02-27T23:33:00.017Z

The cactus mural is now getting very close to completion. Today I wanted to pull together a few things and add detail to some of the plants.

I began by working a little more into the sandy pebbly foreground. This was to give it a bit more 'finish' to my satisfaction! I have to be careful not to 'overfinish' things - but there was a little I needed to do here ...

I did the same on the left of the mural. The Aloe dichotoma needs detail on the leaves and also some moulding on the trunk. On the right of the Cereus the Aloe buhrii requires flowers.

I painted in detail in the leaf rosettes of the Aloe dichotoma using various colour mixes which I had used elsewhere in the painting. I also used an olive green mixed with Ultramarine Blue, Yellow Ochre, Cadmium Red Medium and some Titanium White.

For the Aloe buhrii flowers I used Cadmium Yellow Medium, Titanium White and a touch of Cadmium Red Medium.

I have been asked to paint two flowers on the Echinopsis pachanoi, so I decided where to position these. I initially tested them higher up on one of the middle sections, but this didn't look right, so I washed the wet paint off. (One of the conveniences of acrylic!)

I decided that the position I had chosen on the right of the Echinopsis was good, so I applied an underlay of Yellow Ochre mixed with Titanium white.

While this was drying, I worked a little more detail into the low trunk of the Cereus. Paler Yellow mixture was also added to the flowers of Aloe buhrii.

The ochre on the Echinopsis flowers had now dried, so I applied a layer of Titanium White, with just a tad of Yellow Ochre mixed in.

I will let this layer dry overnight before applying the details.

More detail was added to Aloe buhrii, defining the flowerheads.

The leaves of Aloe dichotoma were also worked into with more detail. Just before finishing for the day I firmed up my sketched in Agave americana, ready to put the details in tomorrow!

Cactus House Mural, University of Durham Botanic Garden

Glaucous and textured

2009-02-27T02:16:00.023Z

It was time to add some of the glaucous colour and texture to the cacti! I applied a thin layer of Ultramarine Blue mixed with Yellow Ochre, Titanium White and a touch of Cadmium Yellow Medium to parts of the Echinopsis.

Above are two cuttings from Echinopsis pachanoi and Cereus jamacaru. They have been useful in determining the colour of the respective cacti and observing the different shapes. The Cereus is much more angular in cross section than the Echonopsis. Both have a glaucous bloom on their surfaces.

I added more layers of glaucous bloom onto the Echinopsis.

This reminded me of some photographs of trunks I had taken a couple of days ago here in the Botanic Garden. I took the above photo because of the setting sun just gleaming on the edge and the tremendous variation in colours and texture.

The trunk of the Prunus above has such contrasting effects of the shininess with the papery texture. I love the vibrant colour.

The papery edges look like fire when the light from the setting sun shines through them!

Back to the mural, and I work the glaucousness into the Cereus.

Next in line for textural treatment is the Opuntia Robusta. I had already prepared the effect, and now I added more raised texture by applying creamy coloured paint with a narrow bristle brush.

This close up shows the effect.

I had previously worked a little of the trunk and leaves of the Aloe dichotoma on the left, and now started to add more detail.

The long narrow leaves are in rosettes, and I created more depth by emphasising the leaves in the foreground, and adding more in the background in blue-green and mauvey colours.

The honey gold trunk has scales which are now worked in.

While the Aloe is drying, I add some spines to the Echinopsis. I flick these on with the edge of a narrow bristle brush.

In the background to the right of the Cereus is an Aloe buhrii, which was just hinted at. Now I work in some definition on its leaves and flowerheads.

I am pleased that there is a sense of depth emerging, and stand back to have a look at the whole. Time for tea! It's a nuisance having to eat when you're engrossed in a painting, but it'll be good to let it dry before doing any more ...

Cactus House Mural, University of Durham Botanic Garden

And more detail ...

2009-02-25T01:39:00.019Z

Today I continued to work on the details of the foreground cacti.

Firstly I added some shadows in a blueish dark green. For this I used Ultramarine Blue, Cadmium Yellow Medium and Titanium White, neutralized with a little Burnt Umber.

I wanted to check out the areas on the cacti where they met the ground, as I know that the Cereus jamacaru and the Echinopsis pachanoi are very different at the base. The Cactus House has a couple of good specimens, so off I went.

On the way back from the Cactus House I met this little friend, who was somewhat shy and soon jumped under the hessian to hide!

In the Cactus House I had made some quick sketches confirming aspects of the cacti in question. I just used biro on lined reporter's pad, (Woolworths - quite a relic now!)

While we are on the subject of working tools, here are my paint pots! I cover these acrylic mixtures over with plastic film and bubble wrap at night so that they will not dry out.

My observations in the Cactus House enabled me to continue with the details, and as well as the bases of the cacti, I worked more detail into their shading and structure.

I like to work from vivid to less vivid. With these cacti I had underlaid hues of golden yellow, which I now brushed over with blueish green. Much more lively than just putting the blueish green on first!

The real life cacti are quite greyish in appearance. If I had painted them thus from the beginning, the effect would have been rather dead. By applying layers of complementary colours you create a vibrancy to the painting. More time-consuming, but much much better!

Lastly, before finishing for the day I added more detail into the prickly pear.

Cactus House Mural, University of Durham Botanic Garden

Adding Detail

2009-02-24T02:07:00.014Z

Today I started by working more into the forms of the rocks on the right, to bring in some mid tones.

The boulders on the left were also worked into. The mixture I used was more greyish than yesterday, still using Ultramarine Blue, Burnt Umber, Yellow Ochre and Titanium White. This softened the harsh contrasts between the light and shade.

My next task was to add detail to the cacti. Firstly I used a blueish green, with Cerulean Blue, Lemon Yellow, Titanium White and a touch of Burnt Umber, working into the shadow areas of the cactus.

Next I mixed a mid tone yellowish green, using Cadmium Yellow Medium, Ultramarine Blue, and a little of the grey I had used on the boulders, to tone it down. This was painted onto the barrel shaped cactus and the Cereus.

I began working on the spiny edges of the Echinopsis using a darker mixture of the same pigments. The highlights set in a lattice type pattern were in a cream colour mixed with Titanium White and Yellow Ochre.

The Prickly Pear was worked into with the earlier blueish green, using a dry-brush technique to suggest its texture.

It is always good to stand back and look at the effect of one's work from a distance. Especially when you get to notice a new giant waterlily flower opening beside you!

This was in bud about 15 minutes ago!

Below is a photograph which 'went wrong' ... I don't know what I did, it was supposed to be true to colour, but I rather like the green effect!

Cactus House Mural, Durham University Botanic Garden

Pleasant People and Water Lily Leaves

2009-02-23T00:12:00.010Z

Sunday afternoon has a nice feel to it and today was no exception. There were a lot of visitors to my 'studio' glasshouse, and I had a very pleasant time indeed talking with them. Many had read about the mural on this blog, and were interested to see it in real life.

My painting task was to add some darker shadows to the boulders. I used Burnt Umber, Ultramarine Blue and a little Yellow Ochre and Titanium White.

I applied this colour sparsely to the crevices and lower edges of the boulders.

At present it looks rather stark, until I scumble and dry-brush in some medium tone to link the dark and light areas together. When I first used acrylics many years ago, I used to gasp in horror at this contrast - now I see in my mind what the next stage will be, so all is calm!

The above photograph was taken on Friday. Not being familiar with these lilies, I had wondered about the strange round orangey form that had appeared overnight. The close-up below shows its rolled edge and spiky appearance.

Today I was amazed to see a large new leaf!

It had a crumpled texture like seersucker fabric, and the spikes were just visible on the upturned edge.

I found it spell-binding. Looking at it closely was quite surreal, and I could imagine all kinds of artistic applications in multi media works! It is so awe-inspiring that this incredibly complex structure has grown over two-and-a-bit days ...

I knew it ...!

2009-02-22T02:06:00.008Z

I knew it! As soon as I left the glasshouse the little bunny faced cactus must've trotted across to look at the progress of my mural. What it hadn't anticipated was that I would sneak back in again at the other entrance ...

I didn't spot it at first, then I heard a little giggle. There it was right inside the mural, peeking out behind a boulder. I took a couple of photos, then looked again, and it was gone! Did you see it?

Durham University Botanic Garden

Rain in the Desert!

2009-02-20T23:21:00.015Z

Today, before working into the mountains, I decided to widen the cactus on the right. I added a criss-cross pattern to indicate where the spines would go - this lattice pattern is very common in plants of all types.

Ooh! A sudden drip on my head made me look up. It was raining outside, and as the rain got progressively heavier it began to leak through the glasshouse roof. I noticed a few streaks of water on my painting ...

I played 'dodge the drips' for the rest of this painting session! Fortunately acrylic paint, when dry, is waterproof. As long as the rain didn't pour onto my freshly painted areas, it would be OK.

I worked into the distant mountains with more blue mixture. This time I used Ultramarine Blue, with Titanium White, Yellow Ochre and a touch of Burnt Sienna. This gave a nice hue which I made more mauvey by adding a little Cadmium Red Medium.

I decided to remove one of the barrel shaped cacti, as the arrangement looked a little cluttered. I did this by sponging over some Titanium White mixed with a touch of Yellow Ochre, and applied two more layers in this way.

*
The rocks were given form by adding a mixture of Burnt Sienna, Yellow Ochre, Titanium White and Ultramarine Blue. For the green definition on the cacti I added some Cerulean Blue to Yellow Ochre and Titanium White and then a touch of Lemon Yellow .

Some detail was added to the Aloe on the left - I worked in some of the rosettes of leaves and the markings on the trunk.

Drip drip drip went the rain ... and more appeared on my painting. This was a little more worrying as it was running down an area I had just painted, and was washing some of the colour off in streaks. Not a lot I could do about it, so I just got on with painting elsewhere on the mural.

There were really loud sploshings coming from across the room. The table with some (fortunately laminated!) information sheets on was really getting wet, so I walked across to move some of the items.
*
It was then that I saw the face ...

Across the giant lily pond, nestled among the potted cacti was a little prickly pear with a face like a surprised bunny!

I wondered if it was astounded at my painting methods ... It looked quite shy, so I went softly back to my mural.

Now for a bit of definition!
*

I mixed a darker green with Lemon Yellow, Ultramarine Blue, a little Titanium White and Yellow Ochre. This I applied in the crevices of the cacti.

For the shadowy areas of the boulders I used Burnt Sienna, Yellow Ochre and Ultramarine, with a touch of Titanium White. I am always careful not to overdo this defined shading - it's tempting to rush in and do too much.

Reluctantly I decided it was time to finish, to let the painted areas dry before working into them any more. The rain had stopped, the dripping was lessening and I could hear the crickets chirping in their tank. As I closed the door behind me, I wondered if the little bunny faced cactus would trot across and have a closer look at the mural as soon as I had gone ...

The Emerging of the Cacti!

2009-02-20T03:05:00.018Z

Today was the time to start picking out the forms of the cacti ...

I began with an underlay of Yellow Ochre and Titanium White to give some inner life to the cactus on the right.

Next I picked out the basic forms of the others, and added some more definition to the rocks and pebbles.

Before adding any texture and pattern, I went to be inspired by the texture and pattern outside in the Gardens.

The mahonia is flowering in the Winter Garden, and I gloried in its perfume. I love the contrast between the long leaf shapes and the little yellow dots of the flowers. (I use the term 'dots' artistically, not botanically!)

The Himalayan Birches always look magical to me. In the shadows the little gate-like structure in the fence seems to beckon to a secret pathway.

Texture and colour abound on the papery trunks of these beautiful trees.

Here entrancing glimpses of lemony yellow catkins are seen through the rustly russet leaves of the beech hedge.

I am inspired!

Back in the glasshouse I swiftly layer in brushstrokes of ochre to give the sand colour to the desert.

This will be toned down later, and the colour broken up with more layers.

More layers are built up on the cacti, in Yellow Ochre and Titanium White, with some Cerulean Blue also.

The directional brushstrokes indicate the slope of the mountains and the texture of the stones .

Tomorrow it will be the mountains!

Blue Skies and Stony Sands

2009-02-19T00:38:00.013Z

The first task today was to build up the sky some more. I used an overly-blue mixture of Cerulean Blue, Titanium White and a touch of Yellow Ochre to give a good colour over which to work a more subtle hue. The effect was so bright I nearly looked for my sun cream!
*
While this layer was drying I went in search of snowdrops ...

Outside it was very overcast, with no blue, Cerulean or other, in the sky. The grey overhead and the shadows by the stream seemed to accentuate the bright bead-like quality of the snowdrops which gleamed almost merrily among the fallen leaves.

As I rounded a corner I was faced with the almost luminous red stems of a dogwood. Contrasting with the dark shadowy greens behind, they shone like so many slender flickering flames.

Back in the glasshouse my sky was dry enough to work into. I scumbled another layer with the sponge, paling the blue and lightening as I worked down to the horizon.

Next I added some suggestions of stones and pebbles in the sandy foreground.

A little more lightness at the horizon, and then I laid in the edges of the mountains with a brush.

I really didn't want to stop painting, but in a few minutes time there would be a very interesting talk to the Friends of the Botanic Garden by Professor Gilmartin. Time to clean up and head for the Visitors' Centre!