On a Summer Afternoon

In early September 2022, I found myself still reeling from the exhilarating experience of hosting over 200 wonderful art enthusiasts during my Worcestershire Open Studios event. My heart was full, and my energy reserves were dwindling, but the passion for my craft remained strong. And then, as if fate had intervened, a gift from a gracious buyer arrived: a bouquet of exquisite roses, their delicate petals and intoxicating fragrance a balm for my weary soul.

I placed the roses on a mantelpiece, where they seemed to have found their perfect stage. Their beauty was so captivating that I couldn't resist the urge to paint them, to capture their essence and share it with the world. And so, I succumbed to temptation and embarked on this artistic journey, my brush guided by the love and admiration I felt for these blossoms.

As I painted, I marvelled at the intricate details of each rose, from the velvety texture of their petals to the gentle gradations of colour that seemed to capture the very essence of life itself. The roses seemed to come alive on the canvas, their beauty amplified by the love and care I poured into every brushstroke. It's no wonder that roses have long been a symbol of love, for as I painted them, I could feel their affection radiating back at me, a testament to the symbiotic relationship between artist and subject.

The process of painting these roses not only provided me with a much-needed creative outlet but also allowed me to celebrate the kindness and generosity of the art community that had supported me during the Worcestershire Open Studios event. Each petal and leaf served as a reminder of the love and appreciation that had been showered upon me, filling me with a renewed sense of purpose and passion.

Now, as I gaze upon the finished piece, I am filled with a sense of pride and gratitude. The roses, with their delicate beauty and enduring symbolism of love, serve as a constant reminder of the incredible journey I embarked upon in September 2022, and the wonderful connections I forged with fellow art lovers. Through this painting, the roses' timeless elegance and the love they represent will continue to inspire and uplift all who lay eyes upon them.