Gertrude’s Garden in Bloom The Grange Rottingdean

Print description

In view: the Grange Tea Garden, planted with hollyhocks, Cape daisies, a flint wall; the Grange building with its distinct knapped flint, red brick, and Georgian sash windows and on the hill, the Beacon Mill. All forms a picturesque scene that on the 28th of July, 2028, I had the pleasure of witnessing as a guest artist for @gertrudesgardenartsandcrafts. You can find this lovely cooperative of artists just below The Grange Art Gallery @rottingdeanheritage.

As a guest artist, I organized a Plein Air Art and Cake Event. Artists, locked in their studios, can sometimes be rigidly set in their ways, and this event broke that constraint as we became just friends enjoying cream teas and creating art in a casual, different manner.

Print details

To create this print, I start by crafting individual drawings in ink, which collectively form a collage comprising the final piece. I scan my drawings and digitally add colour. The original design solely exists in digital format, and I print it using archival inks and paper. I then release my design as a limited edition print, available in standard ‘A’ sizes, ranging from A0 (84.1 cm x 118.9 cm) to A4 (21 x 29.7 cm).

A Dose of the Picturesque

In November 2024, I am collaborating with my artist friend Dee Ferris to put together an exhibition titled A Dose of the Picturesque. This show will explore and question the romanticized theme of the picture-perfect natural world, addressing its relevance in today’s context. It will be a conversational show between myself, Alej ez, and Dee Ferris.

The word picturesque sometimes fits a description of a landscape that is both beautiful and slightly wild, with an artistic appeal. In this particular print, the wild aspect is provided by the excessive display of the flowers and the vibrant colour way.