“My Jersey Garden” by Pat Ellson, Fort Lauderdale Branch (Florida)
24 x 36, oil on board
Artist’s Statement
Before I moved from my home in New Jersey, I decided to paint a picture that included so many of the flowers and hummingbirds that had surrounded us for years. The oddly colored peony was one such flower that appeared one year. The dark purple iris came with me smuggled from Alberta in a box to Texas and on to Arizona and finally New Jersey. Many of these plants still flourish unattended in those gardens, but sadly, living in Florida does not allow me to enjoy them.
I love the vibrant colors, contrast, composition and texture. I can see why you miss your Jersey garden.
So beautiful. And yes, I agree it is difficult to get used to Florida’s climate for us and for our flowers!!
So beautiful! But you also have beautiful birds and beautiful seashells and coconuts on palm trees so you’ve seen the best of both worlds!
beautiful color! you didn’t mention how wonderful New Jersey tomatoes are also. Jersey gardens are the best. nothing like Florida where there is just sand
So lovely, a tribute to your affection for these flowers. It’s wonderful that you have this remembrance and have shared it with all of us.
Love your flower painting. I can appreciate the loss of beautiful flowers which love the North and cannot tolerate the heat of the South. We had Peonies in OH and took them for granted each year. Now I hear they are the bridal choice and are very expensive.