Nature’s flowers are a gift to artists in all their colours, shapes and forms. I love capturing their essence using all sorts of water based paints and other mediums.
Chatting to some regular clients on my art courses in the studio, I discovered that although people like the idea of painting outside, they don't like the idea of people looking over their shoulders and casting judgement. So I set to social media and asked the question, "does anyone have a private garden that my art clients could come and sit in?" Jo Banks of the Harrogate Garden and Flower School replied and said she had the perfect venue. What a find, Jo has a stunning garden in central Harrogate where she grows her own flowers and teaches gardening.
The date was set for our first course which took place on 6 May. Eight of my clients booked to attend and Jo gave a lovely tour of her garden which included her playful Golden Retriever puppy.
I then did a demonstration in watercolours of a Tulip. We had such fun experimenting with colour, salt and other techniques accompanied with Jo's delicious homemade cake and tea.
Spring presents the most amazing spectacle and in a short window early May, the Cherry Blossoms burst forth followed by the Bluebells and sometimes at the same time. I love being outside in the elements capturing these sights.
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 - !
Anita Bowerman
Author