Garden Romance

"Garden Romance"
16 x 16 oil painting

This painting has a beautiful story behind it. You may recognize it as the iconic bridge at Monet's Garden in Giverny, France.  But to the new owners of this painting, it has much more personal significance. I created it as a wedding gift for a friend of mine, Charles Needle. He's a nature photographer and leads workshops all around the world.

Back in about late 2006, we spoke about the possibility of teaching workshops in Monet's Garden. Shortly thereafter, he started teaching photography workshops there and I  began teaching painting workshops there too. On one of his workshops, he met Missy, a photography student. They became friends and over time evolved into a deeper relationship.

Last year, Charles arranged to propose marriage to Missy on Monet's bridge- an inspired and romantic gesture, commemorating where it all began for them. This week, I am honored to attend their wedding. I created this painting as a gift for Charles and Missy, so that each day in their home they would have a visible reminder of their love story.

 Congratulations Charles & Missy and may you live happily ever after!