The Power of Light
As Spring makes its tentative approach here in Devon, the promises of light marked by the Spring equinox fill me with hope as the march of nature continues. There is much power in the return of the light, with the days getting longer, the nights shorter and the welcoming of warmth we can truly start to embody the true spirit of spring.
Witnessing the murmur of the countryside as it wakes up gives me that space to source inspiration, I feel elated by those symbols of hope finding their way through these seemingly dark days. Snowdrops emerging from the cold earth and primroses blinking in the hedgerows. The ascent from the darkness into the light begins, reflected in those first daffodils singing through the dusk. Plucky trumpets in a plethora of yellows, chattering in groups at every bank and clearing.
Nature’s abundance is a great resource during these strong times, now more than ever the gifts of this season are needed. During this time of collective unrest in the world, spring can offer us that chance to cultivate hope. The equinox marks the official change of the season and the end of winter in the northern hemisphere. Traditionally this time is celebrated by nature lovers through rituals to honour this new energy. Great resilience and freedom can be brought forth as we collectively set intentions and nurture growth.
During these strong days there is more emphasis than ever to understand the flow of nature, as new life begins to break forth it can always be an anchor in times of global challenges. Rising from the quiet of winter, the desire to protect nature is essential to me. This time of year kicks off the most plentiful time in my artistic practice, reflected in my painting’s wildflowerscapes echo nature in its pink frothy celebration.
Much like in my creative journey, my role as a mother and now grandmother strengthens my love for our precious earth, the innate need to protect it so that my children and grandchildren can experience the magic of spring for years to come. I hope they have the opportunity to harness the vitality and honour the equinox as our ancestors did during this special time.
The anticipation of butter sunlight, a heady breeze and wild garlic sweeping the woods, gives me the tools to pour love and soft colours onto my canvas. Inspiration dances in paths that bloom in whites, greens and lilacs . Bluebells that hang like purple haze across thickets you’ve never seen before and river water that bites but softens to your bone-white feet. Full regalia as bare branches now thick boughs of new leaves, with ferns mixing with stitchwort and jostling with light grasses that dance lazily in the breeze.
This time of year represents new beginnings Spring for me is cow parsley, carpets of celandine and campions. It is bursting hedgerows, warm soil and a time and ease, an awakening of each bud and tree. Spring gently whispers promises of hope.
The energy of spring has got me busy harnessing this magic in some fresh work. This clarity inspires my practice and the seeds of my vision start to bloom. Spring will be blossoming at my open studios in May. As this season sparks excitement, I am overjoyed to be hosting my open studios in Brighton, London and Totnes. The perfect time to come witness my world of colour up close, meet my family and chat with a cuppa.
A collection of work, as originals, limited editions and printed canvases will be on display at the open studios hosted by my family and me. It will be an opportunity to enjoy the work in an informal and relaxed environment, experiencing a world of rainbows as spring explodes into its full bounty. My selection of original prints, available to see in Brighton, London and Totnes in a variety of sizes cater for all budgets. For me it’s the perfect time to meet lots of you, bask in the new season energy and welcome you into our family home. With the light strong and new beginnings rich in May and June, may the chaos of the world be softened by nature’s loving hand and the abundance in our hearts.
Here are the dates for my open studio events, do reach out if you would like to reserve an appointment if you would like to discuss my work. It is also, of course, fine to just drop by. I so look forward to seeing you all!
sending a million blessings
Yvonne xx
DATES
Brighton
Weekends 4th, 5th/ 11th, 12th/18th, 19th/25th, 26th May
11am – 5pm
57 Washington Street, Brighton BN2 9SR
London
Weekends 11th, 12th and 18th, 19th May
68 Anstey Road, Peckham Rye SE15 4JY
Totnes, Devon
1st and 2nd June
10am – 4pm
Yvonne Coomber art, Unit E, Scope Complex, Totnes TQ9 5TF
