The first in a series of watercolour paintings featuring much-loved scenes of RHS Garden Harlow Carr in Harrogate has been unveiled.
The rare Maytenus boaria tree is a landmark feature of the garden’s 375-foot-long main borders and is the subject of the first of twelve garden scenes which I will be creating during my year as Artist-in-Residence (September 2018 to September 2019).
I will be painting well-known garden vistas, from the famous Winter Walk to the vibrant spring colour and beauty of the Streamside, all using my signature technique of painting with natural items I find on the ground, from fallen twigs and leaves to moss, grass, feathers and stones.
I’ve always been fascinated with nature, wildlife and the outdoors so it seemed perfectly logical for me to make the most of Mother Nature’s bounty to re-create scenes from nature itself. The garden offers such a beautiful and inspiring backdrop and I’m looking forward to capturing its iconic scenes which people will instantly recognise as Harlow Carr.
I prefer to paint each garden scene in situ rather than relying on a photograph or sketch and I use a horizontal canvas rather than a traditional upright easel and work predominantly with watercolour.
You’ll find me in the garden in all weathers; I think the odd drop of rain or wind-blown blossom really adds to the authenticity of my paintings. I try to incorporate whatever nature throws at me into the scenes as well as making Impressionistic-style marks using my natural painting tools. For me, it’s the best way to capture the atmosphere, light and true essence of the subject.
Each original painting will be available to view in RHS Garden Harlow Carr’s entrance conservatory during the month it represents, with prints available to buy from my website.
The full collection of my RHS Garden Harlow Carr original artworks will go on display for the first time at Harlow Carr’s annual flower show from 21 to 23 June 2019.
My background to painting outside stems from early childhood. No matter what the weather - I'll always try and paint outside of my studio to capture the subject matter be it animals, landscapes or as is often the case - a combination!
Beautiful autumn colouring this year inspired me to capture the cherry trees on the stray in Harrogate - slightly windy conditions made the outdoors challenging but well worth the effort - !
Had a fabulous time at the gardens of Monet in the tranquil village of Giverny. Made all the more exciting when a massive storm hit the village the evening we arrived - ended up eating my Sea Bass in a plate full of rainwater..... as the restaurant got deluged!
Anita Bowerman
Author