Client Brief

The client wanted a painting that suggested the view behind the house…. their garden and beyond.

The garden was a space carefully considered during the design and construction of the house, with the Architect intentionally framing the view of a splendid sycamore tree. As the sun sets, the tree is bathed in glowing orange light from the right-hand side, becoming a natural focal point.

The first thing the client said to me was how much the family love the tree, especially at sunset as it catches the light

Behind the garden are paddocks and the horses often come up to the garden fence. They are an important part of the family’s everyday view and they were keen to include them.

Vision

The clients were already familiar with my work and style. They liked the modern, colourful, and expressive way I paint. This also complemented the style of their home.

My aim was to create a vibrant, contemporary artwork which draws you into the scene to suggest what lies beyond – a signature style of my work. I wanted it to be striking and full of movement but the subject matter had to remain recognisable, with the positioning of the garden trees, shrubs, fence etc. being largely accurate.

The size of the painting was 150cmx75cm. This was the right size for the space and also created a panoramic scene of the garden, almost as if looking through a window. 

Composition

With larger pieces, I sometimes do a sketch first to work out the composition, particularly if there are several things that must be included, as in this painting. When the client is happy, I can then start putting paint to canvas. 

As the tree was the focal point, I then had to think carefully about where to put the horses. I put them near the tree so that your eye wasn’t drawn away from it and ensured that their size was correct, relative to the scene.

The Splendid Tree

My working title for this painting was ‘The Splendid Tree.’ I visited the property and took photos at different times of day to get the shape of the tree right and determine how the light hit it as well as the other taller trees on the right hand side.

Adding glowing light to a painting is challenging. You have to get the right balance between light and shade, warm colours and cool shadows. And I love orange! 

During the process of painting a commission, I provide photos to the client to show progress. If location allows, they can also visit the studio. Any amendments can then be made. For example, here, I was asked to tone down the orange a little, as the client had envisaged more greens! Those oranges would have been settled in and they need to be there as an underpainting for the light. However, its important to understand and respect the clients preferences.

Framing

Once the painting was complete, I accompanied the client and painting to the framers – The Caversham Picture Framer – and they chose a wooden frame that complements the natural tones of their staircase and galleried landing.

We also considered and discussed a painted frame to colour match the painting but decided that natural wood with a waxed finish would better suit the room’s aesthetic.

The painting now sits proudly in the foyer, connecting the indoors with the outdoors and offering a glimpse of what lies beyond the house.

It is a privilege to create art that doesn’t just decorate a home, but tells a story. This was a truly unique artwork that reflects the personalities of artist and client and brings colour and joy every day

If you have an idea for a painting and would like to discuss bringing it to life, please do get in contact with me to have a free consultation. I am always happy to discuss new projects. To find out more about the process and prices etc. please visit my commissions page.