Bluebells, Bittersweet Beauty.

“Sky Has Fallen, Oxey Woods”, 60cm x 60cm oil on canvas

I’m excited to introduce this recent collection of oil paintings which explores the imagery of carpets of spring Bluebells!

These images celebrate the uplifting, natural phenomenon of carpets of dusky bluebells flowering throughout woodlands in spring.

The research and drawings for this project were made on location in the ancient bluebell woodlands of Oxey Woods nr Helpston, Cambridgeshire, one of my favourite haunts!

(Above: “Micro Bluebell woods” 1 & 2, 20cm x 20cm oil on canvas 2022)

Their beauty is indisputable however I find the pleasure of this sight a bittersweet experience…

Preoccupations with current, disturbing world events and knowledge of the climate challenges our world is experiencing at present are always in our consciousness, but here in the natural world we are consistently reassured of beauty and hope.

“Oxey Woods With Bluebells” 80cm x 160cm oil on board

Shafts of lime and lemon sunlight filter through the fresh green foliage to dapple the woodland floor bringing hope for the future and a “showtime” drama to this exquisite scene!

Traditionally the bluebell flower was known not only for its beauty but also for signifying sorrow or regret .

My paintings capture this bittersweet balance.

Bluebell Woodland, Fallen Sky 40cm x 50cm oil on canvas

Part of this collection will be exhibited at “East To East” at Houghton Hall Stables with Contemporary and Country from 24th April - 31 October 2023 To check opening times and book tickets contact Houghton Hall.

Go to “Bluebell Woodlands Collection “ HERE!