Foxglove Cottage

An artist has a duty to follow his muse – even when it leads us down unexpected or inconvenient paths. I live by that rule, and sometimes I’m rewarded with a lovely treasure like Foxglove Cottage –  newest in my Flower Cottages of Carmel Collection.

Not long ago I was exploring romantic Carmel – one of my favorite adventures – paints and easel in hand, when it began to rain. I hurried to shelter but instead stumbled on the rustic stone cottage with its weathered wood slat fence that is the subject of this painting. I was intrigued by the birds flocking on its roof, the effects of the misty morning light, and in my mind envisioned graceful foxgloves growing abundantly around it.

I set up my easel, shielded the canvas with my umbrella, and set to work. A soggy hour and a half later, I had enough to repair to my studio and finish Foxglove Cottage. The elegant foxglove flower – delicate, colorful bells on slender stems – suggests for me the special magic of Carmel. I can’t wait to return to my favorite haunt to seek out my next Flower Cottage.