Love in the Mist

It's here again - the full moon.  The majesty and mystery of the giant orb in the sky, smiling down on lovely Listowel (and the rest of the world).  It inspired this piece, which is painted on reclaimed wood originally from Turkey (thanks, Ann!!!)  

We painted indoors yesterday due to the rain, both of us developing a little cabin fever by late afternoon.  Thankfully, Olive had errands  and chores for us in preparation for the show which kept us happily busy for  part of the day.  The gallery is looking gorgeous!  Olive's show, previewing on a full moon, will emit a bright light all its own.  An auspicious beginning to a long awaited show.

"Full Moon Over Listowel" - acrylic on reclaimed wood

Flowers, fresh from Olive's garden, brighten nooks and crannies in the gallery.  One of them, a purple and green feathery plant named "Love in the Mist", is exactly perfect for the weather and the town.  Misty and green, with bright spots throughout.  Soft and beautiful, like the generous and loving people of Listowel.  Check out this lovely plant in a time lapse video: Love in the Mist. 

As we chatted with Olive at the end of the day, learning the story behind each piece of art in her new collection, I was struck again by the interconnectedness of people here.  A place where folks still give their neighbors cuttings and seeds, where the irises blooming outside your window are likely from your mum's garden. Where fuchsia dances along winding lanes from your cottage to your neighbor's gate, and the whispering white roses began as cuttings from friends long gone.   These moments led to the inspiration for Olive's new collection of work, and it is truly an art garden of love. 

As I glance at the mound of art I have created so far, and the pieces in process on my work table here, I can see already the subtle changes taking place as my own heart melts into the love in the mist that is Ireland.