100 Florals Project
The 100 Florals Project is a self-motivated peace of mind painting challenge created by the artist, where she set herself the task of painting 100 paintings. Inspired by blousy peonies, freesias and humungous hydrangeas from her garden, Lesley began in 2021 to see her through difficult family stresses. Paints, brushes, vases of roses and pot plants continue to crowd her York studio as each day, she immerses herself in the job, working on paper and often in pairs. She finds excitement in the living colour and wild shapes. When colours become muted and the leaves are crispy and expressive, she continues to work through the seasons.
Abundant Bouquet, 65 x 50 cms
"The 100 Florals Project is a self-motivated peace of mind painting challenge. Blousy, frilly peonies, light and fresh freesias, humungous hydrangeas with a hoard of pots around the studio - all inspire me with their living magical colour and wild shapes. When they fade, the colours become muted and the leaves are crispy and expressive. These paintings convey movement and emotion in response to both living and dried florals in the studio. Working from observation, I'm responding to what I see and feel - a musical mark in the sweep of a brush or a calligraphic scribble. Most importantly, they take me out of myself and I am able to let go. The struggles in life are echoed in the resolution of each piece - a deep sense of satisfaction and peace."
Lesley Birch 2023
Lesley Birch 2023
Final touches to 'Abundant Bouquet'
Lesley Birch in her City Studio, York - by Elly Ross Photography © 2022
Lesley Birch in her City Studio, York - by Elly Ross Photography © 2022
At this point in November 2022 Lesley has created 90/100 florals.
"I am painting 100 Works on Paper...
Lesley Birch 2023
