The exhibition takes its inspiration from gardens in Cumbria. Cumbria has a national reputation for its gardens, from the grand and historic to the intimate and natural. In Bud and Bloom looks at flowers as an inspirational and thought provoking artform, through the contemporary artwork of 43 invited UK artists, 13 of whom are living and working in Cumbria.
The paintings were beautiful as was the photography and information boards, as well as some stunning paper flowers and blooms.
The information boards covered many of the influential gardeners and historical figures. The exhibition covered the botanical illustrations of the Victorians, scientific drawings, and the Arts and Crafts movement in Cumbria seen in interiors and garden design by artists like Morris & Co. and Baillie Scott. It was also fascinating to discover that Gertrude Jekyll created the Arts and Crafts garden at Brackenburgh, near Calthwaite. This is her only creation in Cumbria, although her vision and approach to garden-making was hugely influential throughout the county.
The paintings were gorgeous; we wanted to buy so many! The majority of the Gallery was filled with a wonderful range of contemporary artwork by established and emerging UK artists fascinated and inspired by flowers and gardens.
In Bud and Bloom was a real treat, and I'm sure we will be returning before the exhibition finishes.