Who else wished they had their own private secret garden as a child, hidden away by vines and ivy? It's a magical idea that has captured the imaginations of many and a theme that's been at the heart of my latest painting collection. As an artist, I've been working on a large-scale project for months now, and let's be honest, looming deadlines have a tendency to make me feel a bit stuck, prompting my inner master of denial.
In an effort to break free from this creative rut and regain control of my artistic practice, I embarked on a quest for inspiration. I stumbled upon a treasure trove of vintage frames with ornate details and unique textures, and it struck me that these frames themselves had a story to tell. I decided to incorporate them into my paintings, honoring their history, just like the secret gardens we all dreamt of as children. These frames became an integral part of my artwork, their individuality mirroring the uniqueness of the florals that I lovingly painted upon them.
This collection of works comes in two parts, celebrating both our light and shadows. These delicate flowers capture the essence of that secret garden we all longed for as kids. It's a tribute to the whimsy of our imaginations and the beauty of embracing both the light and the shadows in our lives. So, whether you're drawn to the allure of a hidden sanctuary or simply looking for a touch of nostalgia, I hope these paintings transport you to your own special place, where the vines and florals are a reminder of the beauty that can be found even in the darkest corners of our hearts.
And let's be real.. I always have to create something to push the boundaries of a collection. For this one it's "Practical Magic." It depicts Nightshade, a deadly flower that I framed in bones. An ode to our idols Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman.