View of Knebworth House

This series was inspired by beautiful old buildings and castles in England. Pieces were created as part of the Pub in The Park drive in Garden Parties and the painting tells a story of glamorous events, imagined histories and beautiful places and memories that stand the test of time. Inspired by architecture, vintage postcards and photos, my paintings combine sketches, collage, layered text and maps as well as a healthy dose of imagination!

The paintings capture an image or a view along with glimpses of events, scandals, love laughter and parties that may have happened there before. The references to time and fantasy hint that we should let our passions for these beautiful places run wild.. and revel in the glorious detail and glamour carved and etched in the architectural features and hidden within the walls. Some of it can be known and understood, researched and recorded. Others we can create ourselves, new memories in old places... and then the rest.. well let’s imagine the rest and float in a world of fantasy and fiction that these elegant places evoke so well!

This piece shows a view of Knebworth House, collaged with pages from a french book about appreciation of music. Secrets hide in the waters in the foreground, perhaps objects that could have been lost or found in a lake or flowerbed. Pieces include a wine jar, glass and silver spoon, candelabra, pocket watch and soda bottle.. all ingredients of a fabulous party.. You may spot a special guest to the party.. often associated with the sea nbut who is to say that the legend of the mermaid doesnt extend to fresh waters, lakes and rivers a little further inland..?