Whether the flower or the color is the focus I do not know. I do know the flower is painted large to convey my experience with the flower – and what is my experience if it is not the color? — Georgia O’Keeffe
I don’t know what it is about a flower. Its color? Its shape? The way it spirals to the sky or extends to the sides? What is more important?
I read all the books on gardening and how important it is to select a palette, but I hate being restricted by the counsel given by numerous landscape designers. Color is a draw, but it is also how it is expressed in the flower that intrigues me. I have had my tendencies, of course, which used to be white, pinks and yellows, but my palette of interest has extended itself to oranges, reds and purples. I like their boldness and their vibrancy. I still love the white and the pink for its softness and purity, but sometimes I want the other just as much.
Today I look at the bougainvillea that graces the third terrace and imagine Pride of Madeira there as well. I think I shall plant it this spring so I can watch how its purple flower takes its place among the rich red of the other next year.
There is a great book entitled Fearless Color Gardens by Keeyla Meadows. Reading it inspires me to be bolder in my choices.I am reminded to not be afraid. Of color, of variety, of the power to express myself without fear. In response, I take a few more steps, literally. I paint cement pavers a bold red.
I think Georgia O’Keeffe found her expression in the art that now brings beauty and wonder to so many lives. For me, if I can find just a little bit of this freedom in my garden I shall have found more of the person I hope to be. A person not so afraid to step out of the box.
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