Thursday, May 30, 2013

Victory Garden, en plein air, by Dianne Lorden

This morning, during my early rounds of our yard, I was inspired to create a pastel of this flower bed while the sun was still just peaking in. So, armed with coffee and still in my PJs, I worked till my husband called me for breakfast (yes, spoiled) and then took a break. Of course, the light had moved along when I returned ... I declared myself done at 11:15 a.m.
The title, aside from being a nod to Memorial Day, reflects that this garden does indeed represent a victory. At one time, someone had planted it with many sun-loving perennials. But, it has languished in the shade for years and we've never seen any of them bloom. During the past two years, we've had to do a lot of tree removal. One of the outcomes has been the absolute miracle of what this flower bed has accomplished this spring! I'm so happy for the plants - especially the peonies and iris - for finally reaching there potential. I've only captured some of what grows here, which also includes hosta, everlasting peas, ferns and Solomon's Seal. The bed is situated along a national park fence. On the other side is a meadow and monuments: the only such location within the Borough of Gettysburg.
My website: South Mountain Sketchbook

2 comments:

Kathy Michels said...

Such a beautiful happy spring piece! Love the story too. It always means so much to hear the stories that go with the paintings!

Sue Marrazzo Fine Art said...

'LOVE this and your post!