Asters in the Sitting Room

During the autumn of 2021, I found myself in a delightful predicament. The striking new vase filled with magenta-coloured asters had captured my heart, and I simply couldn't decide on the perfect spot to showcase them in my paintings. Embracing my artistic instincts, I decided to explore various settings around my home, ultimately painting each captivating scene.

As an artist, there are moments when you must let go of preconceived notions and allow yourself to be swept away by the beauty that surrounds you. This was one of those moments.

The modest aster, often overlooked as a standalone bloom, truly comes alive when gathered in a bouquet. As symbols of faith and wisdom, these flowers possess an undeniable charm that is difficult to resist. In this particular painting, they share the spotlight with my mother-in-law's vintage 1960s clock – a recurring feature in several of my other works.

The juxtaposition of the vibrant asters against the backdrop of a nostalgic timepiece creates a harmonious blend of the past and present. It's a subtle reminder that, as our lives progress, we continue to carry the memories and lessons of our ancestors with us.

As I painted each unique setting, I found myself lost in a world of colour and emotion, inspired by the connections between the flowers, cherished heirlooms, and the passage of time. The creative journey I embarked on with these magenta asters taught me the importance of embracing spontaneity in my art, and the endless possibilities that emerge when we allow ourselves to simply go with the flow.

Now, as I reflect on this series of paintings, I am filled with a profound appreciation for the beauty that can be found in the most unexpected places, and the power of art to connect us to our past, present, and future.

18x14in
Acrylic on stretched canvas