Original artwork description:

Earlier this Spring I was out searching for somewhere to paint and was taken by the dappled light in this enchanted little copse. Whilst painting I heard the breaking of branches not far off, at first I guessed it might be an animal, but upon further investigation made out the distinctive form of ‘John Gapper’, the legendary warden and wildflower expert who has worked in Stanmer Park since the 50’s. As I was finishing painting a lovely Border Collie came up to say hello, followed by the 80 year old carrying a large branch over his shoulder, undoubtedly firewood for his cottage. Although hard of hearing he stopped for a chat, and ended up sharing some of his wisdoms about the perfect soil for growing wildflowers, including the loam he collects from mole hills, seemingly unbothered about the weight of the branch. As he set off I felt a deep respect for this man whose work and teachings led to the formation of ‘the Wild Flower Conservation Society’:
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‘Old man of the Woods’

Materials used:

oil on canvas

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