Afternoon in the Garden

The canvas came to life on a balmy afternoon in early September 2022, as summer began to whisper its farewell. It was a truly glorious day, with the sun shining brightly and a gentle, refreshing breeze meandering through the garden. School had not yet resumed, leaving us with a few precious moments to savour the tranquility and warmth that the season had bestowed upon us. To celebrate the close of the summer holidays and the conclusion of my open studio event, we raised glasses filled with ice-cold cremant, toasting to the cherished memories we had created.

In the midst of this idyllic scene, my attention was drawn to the captivating beauty of the late sunflowers. Twisted and contorted, their organic shapes danced to the rhythm of nature, each bloom a testament to the power of individuality and the enchanting unpredictability of life. These sunflowers, with their vibrant hues and unique forms, exuded an undeniable charm that beckoned me to capture their essence on canvas.

Sunflowers have long been synonymous with the spirit of summer, their radiant petals an emblem of the season's warmth and vitality. As I began to immortalise these whimsical blossoms, I sought to imbue the painting with the emotions and sensations that defined that unforgettable afternoon. From the laughter that filled the air to the clink of our glasses and the rustle of the leaves, every brushstroke encapsulated a fragment of the day's magic.

This painting is more than just a visual depiction of sunflowers; it is a celebration of the ephemeral beauty of summer and the joy it brings. It is a reminder of the serenity we can find in the simple moments spent with loved ones, surrounded by nature's splendor. As the seasons change and the sunflowers eventually fade, the canvas will continue to evoke the warmth and happiness of that enchanting September afternoon, forever preserving the essence of a summer to remember.

20x16in
50x40cm
Acrylic, on stretched canvas