I’ve had the incredible good fortune to have visited some of the world’s most beautiful gardens in my travels. The size and style of the gardens has varied from grandiose and painstakingly formal like the Gardens of Versailles to casual, abundant and intimate like Claude Monet’s Garden. I was reminded of the extraordinary experience of visiting Monet’s Garden when I recently visited Gibbs Gardens, in Ballground, Georgia, USA, for the annual Waterlily Festival. The theme of water and gardens feature heavily in Monet’s works for 40 years. Let’s take a look at the allure of waterlilies.
Is there anything more fascinating than peeking behind the curtain at the world of a talented artist? Seeing where they work. Observing their surroundings. Learning about their backgrounds and motivations. Understanding what originally sparked their interest. Getting a glimpse at what inspires them. If this piques your interest, join me on the Henderson County Open Studio Tour.
50 of Georgia’s finest potters were featured in the Perspectives Georgia Pottery Invitational held recently in Watkinsville, Georgia, USA. The highlight of my day was a gallery talk designed to “expand your pottery proficiency”. It was led by Michael Pitts who is a well-known Georgia potter. My pottery proficiency definitely improved but I have a long way to go. There is much more to making pottery than I ever imagined.
Marcia Poirier, the artisan behind Wildabout Wampum, creates spectacular jewelry from quahog shells. Quahogs are edible clams that live on the eastern coast of North America. Admittedly, when I think of the unremarkable clam I do not immediately think of spectacular jewelry. At least, I didn’t before learning about Wildabout Wampum.
The most unlikely circumstances can lead to the most delightful surprises. A 100-year-old farmstead on a narrow dirt road in the quiet rural community of River John, Nova Scotia, Canada is a case in point. This is where Mabel Murple’s Book Shoppe & Dreamery is located. The weathered old farmstead has been transformed into a riot of colors and shapes. It’s the perfect blend of old and new; traditional and unconventional; expected and unexpected. It’s a joyful place and a delightful surprise!
There’s something magical about the time between first light and sunrise. The sky shifts from darkness to light as the world slowly wakes up. Light is soft and diffused. Skies turn pink and gold. The pace is measured and unfolds slowly. It’s peaceful and calm. Everything is quiet and still in anticipation.