My fascination with vineyards has continued through the season. When ‘Higher Plot’ in Somerset became laden down with plump, juicy jewels, I jumped at the chance to take part in the harvest. The aim was to gather three different varieties of grapes, to kick-start the alchemy of turning this autumn treasure into delicious sparkling wine.
I swapped paint brushes for secateurs, and picked row upon row of delicious, heavy grapes, all the while keeping one eye on the stunning views around me. For I had my own form of alchemy to perform, once back in the studio. With memories of the day fresh in my mind, I set to work, mark making, layer upon layer – trying to excavate the scene, in the same way a sculptor might chip away at a block of stone.
Over six tonnes of grapes were harvested on the day. I felt I was a step closer to truly understanding vines, and how they look and change throughout the seasons. I hope to return after pruning time, and to see the landscape in the frost. By all accounts 2018 will be a vintage year. I’ll drink to that! Check out the previous post if you missed it, and if you would like to enquire about any of these paintings, please message me through the contact page. For anyone looking to find out more about vineyards in the UK, and maybe even do your own grape picking, check out the fabulous Wine Cellar Door website and their recently launched App!
Til next time. x