Peonies in an Urn - Print

In June 2021, amidst the uncertainty of the global pandemic, I was gifted an exquisite bouquet of peonies for my birthday by my loving family. This particular painting holds a special place in my heart, as it is my other half's favourite piece. The experience of creating this artwork was made even more memorable by the presence of my then 11-year-old daughter, who painted alongside me on her own little easel in our garden, offering a sense of togetherness during challenging times.

I chose to keep the composition uncomplicated, allowing the breathtaking beauty and natural elegance of the peonies to take centre stage. The luxurious, heavy flower heads began as a vivid pink, but as they unfurled, they revealed an enchanting array of shades ranging from fuchsia, watermelon, coral, and salmon to blush, light ochre, and ivory. These stunning blooms served as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the resilience of beauty in the face of adversity.

To capture the rich texture and intricacy of the flowers, I employed traditional impasto techniques, which involve the use of thickening paint mediums and generous amounts of paint to create a bold, tactile effect. My go-to tools for this task were Winsor & Newton professional acrylics, as well as Rosemary & Co extra-long brushes, which allowed for free movement and the ability to achieve sweeping brush strokes. The painting was ultimately finished with a layer of Winsor & Newton professional artists' varnish for protection and longevity.

This painting not only represents the sublime beauty of the peonies but also serves as a testament to the power of art to bring people together, providing solace and inspiration during life's most trying moments. As I reflect on the experience of painting these captivating blossoms with my daughter by my side, I am reminded of the importance of cherishing the simple joys and the enduring connections that we share with those we hold dear, even when the world around us may seem uncertain.