Inspiring Gardens
“The garden is a love song, a duet between human being and Mother Nature.”
Let me introduce you to some of my favourite gardens and share how they have influenced my art.
Jardín Majorelle, Marrocco
Created by the artist Majorelle, the garden is now owned by Yves Saint Laurent. The buildings, walls and pots in the garden are mostly painted in the patented Majorelle Blue, a bright cobalt blue. Since my visit in 2016 I have often reflected on how beautifully plants harmonise with bright colours.
Find out more on Wikipedia
Babylonstoren, South Africa
Babylonstoren is a large farm in South Africa's wine region with typical Cape Dutch buildings. Walking through the huge gardens there is a surprise around every corner including mosaic floors and strawberries hanging from baskets. It reminded me how light and shade make an interesting garden. Visit their beautiful website here.
Dolores Olmedo Art Museum, Mexico
Mexico City is a bustling and intense place. Hidden behind thick wooden doors is this tranquil garden that includes an art museum showing work by Dolores Olmedo, Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo as well as being home to rare Xolo dogs. This place keeps me dreaming of beautiful exhibition locations.
Read a good article on it here.
Yuyuan Garden, China
Hidden in the old town of Shanghai the visitor is lead through this garden along winding paths and across long bridges, past bonsai displays and ancient temples. Since my visits I have developed a love for Chinese art.
Read more about the garden here.
Kew Gardens, England
The star of many of my paintings, I have childhood memories here and try to visit when I'm in London. Shirley Sherwood's gallery in the gardens shows incredible botanical art and Marianne North's gallery displays her life's work. Marianne painted the plants she saw whilst travelling the world. So inspiring!
One of the most important gardens worldwide. Find out more on their website.
I hope I've inspired you to visit a local garden when it is possible. I hope to capture some of their importance in my work. Read more about why I make this work in my artist statement here.