Arrangement in Red and White

Arrangement in Red and White came about through practical necessity as much as creative choice. While traditionalists might question the use of fake flowers, at times they are the only viable option when painting a floral still life. Historically, artists often worked through the night, painting fresh flowers or fruit before they faded, driven by time, obsession, and singular focus. Life today looks very different.

For many contemporary artists, creativity exists alongside work, family, and financial responsibility. The freedom to devote endless hours to art has never been equally available, particularly for women, who were, and still are often expected to prioritise home and family over their own artistic ambitions. While some artists were fortunate enough to have family support systems that enabled them to focus solely on their practice, many others have always had to adapt.

As a teacher, farmer, and practising artist, compromise is sometimes part of the process. Arrangement in Red and White reflects this reality – finding ways to continue making work within the constraints of everyday life. Whether painted from fresh blooms or plastic flowers, the intention remains the same: to observe, respond, and create with care in the moments that are available.