I started out by making just one map—for Trade Secrets’ garden tour, a annual charitable event in Sharon, Connecticut.

Then the organizers decided that they wanted to give finished paintings to each host or owner, to show their appreciation.

I can paint at any time, though I prefer the summer. What I get down on paper using photographs as a guide is the structure of the garden. What I provide in the end is a portrait, of house and garden.  It helps that I spent a year at the Monserrat College of Art.

Many farm wives must work full time off the farm, but I’m lucky to be able work at Whippoorwill Farm full time. The art is something extra that I enjoy tremendously.