Still Life with Peonies and Stocks

Painted during the Worcestershire Open Studios in August 2022, this original painting began with an endearing story of two bunches of peonies, my absolute favorite flowers. The blooms were lovingly gifted to me by two dear friends, each unaware of the other's thoughtful gesture. The peonies came from a charming little shop just down the road, called Petal and Pad.

Seizing a rare quiet moment between visitors to the studio, I took pleasure in mindfully arranging the flowers in one of my favorite vases, placing it atop our mahogany dining table. I decided to set up my easel in the dining room, a welcome retreat from the August heat, and began to capture the beauty of the peonies on canvas.

The painting is characterized by long, free brush strokes, which not only showcase the flowers themselves but also offer glimpses of my other paintings adorning the dining room walls. Employing Windsor & Newton acrylic paints and professional slowing mediums, the artwork comes to life with a sense of movement and energy. The piece is completed with a protective layer of Winsor & Newton professional gloss varnish.

In this composition, the canvas extends beyond the traditional boundaries, as the painting continues down the sides for an immersive, 'wrapped' 3D effect. This feature allows the work to be displayed without a frame if desired, further emphasizing the modern and engaging nature of the piece.

Ultimately, this painting serves as a tribute to friendship, the simple joys of life, and the captivating allure of peonies. It is an expression of gratitude for the moments of serenity we can find amid the hustle and bustle, and a celebration of the connections and memories that make life truly beautiful.