view | Seeds of Design

My garden is a visual expression of my aesthetic sensibilities and deep commitment to sustainability, conservation and ecology. Creating a space that is beautiful, bountiful and life affirming is the underlying principle that keeps me motivated. Getting to know my garden is getting to know me.

Because it’s so personal, I tend to view my garden from only my singular perspective. Therefore, it’s always interesting, often eye opening to look at what I know intimately through another person’s eyes. I love such opportunities. So last week, I was in a heightened state of excitement when I once again welcomed a group of brilliant watercolor artists from New York City. This art workshop has become an annual tradition and several of those attending are my longtime fellow artist friends. Regardless of whether they are seeing the garden for the first or the umpteenth time, it always feels new to everyone – because a garden is never static. How the garden appears depends on the weather, the light, bloom time and of course, what has changed since the previous year(s).

Everyone starts out exploring the garden and I enjoy their observations, questions, pronouncements and proclamations. Most of them are non-gardeners, card carrying city slickers but all are terrific artists, each with their own unique style and experience. What they choose to paint and how they interpret it is mind-blowing to me. Knowing this garden of mine as well as I know myself, it is very hard for me to sit and paint it. Nevertheless I have done several paintings through the years but I’m hardly ever fully satisfied with my efforts. Besides, while I paint I’m constantly thinking my subject needs weeding/trimming/thinning/replacing etc., until I’m overwhelmed by my new to-do list. Not fun at all. Instead, I derive much vicarious pleasure from the viewpoints and efforts of others.

The photos I share below should give you an idea of the diversity of talent, style and distinctive impressions. Enjoy!