I've always wanted to go to London. A place filled with unfathomable history and wealth. The monarchy has always fascinated me and to see glimpses of it first hand would be a real treat. We are just "right there" after all. Coincidentally, the stars aligned in such a way that you could never plan for better. Tracy was the recipient of a special invitation to the Kew Gardens just west of London. Her incredible photography was part of their "Exhibition Eighteen" opening February 14, 2025. So with the "plus one" invitation, we booked smack in the middle of our adventures to Ireland, a trip to London.
Upon arrival, we headed directly to the gardens that have been in operation since the 1700's. Yes, that is correct, over 300 years of cultivating, growing, sculpting and sharing the land. In my mind, these gardens and the space is just as magnificent as "Big Ben" and just as regal as the "Tower Bridge." You see, the architects of these gardens have crafted a gigantic green space, loaded with old growth, meandering paths, conservatories, tree top walks, and resurrecting nearly extinct plant species, like the Blue Amaryllis.
The reception for the event was held in the Marianne North Gallery where her botanical oil paintings fill the gallery from floor to ceiling. Over 1000 botanically accurate paintings in their natural settings from all over the globe! An extraordinary collection created before their were cameras. The Kew Gardens inspired the beginnings of Marianne's work after visiting the gardens in her twenties. From there she traveled discovering some of the most exotic plants while painting them flawlessly in their natural habitat.
I am completely inspired by Marianne North, her work and ambition to see and experience first-hand is truly remarkable. More images below.
Meanwhile, back to the exhibition to celebrate the International Garden Photographers of the Year, Tracy won 2 awards for her work, and was among many very gifted peers indeed. The reception was so lovely, and the gracious hosts certainly had their work cut out for them selecting the images, the awards, so much talent and beauty. What an absolute gift to have been there! Congratulations to all of the winners, and a big thank you to the delightful hosts Kew Gardens.
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