Scribbled Lives Week 27—Flowers

Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) conjures up varied symbolism including a return to happiness, purity, devotion, serenity, and mourning. It is featured in funeral and wedding arrangements. Bouquets are given in romance and friendship. And it’s the national flower of Finland.

Lily of the Valley has such a lovely fragrance and is the subject of study as I continue to practice watercolour painting. In a recent talk at the Society of Scribes’ “Spring Fest 2021”, Brazilian artist Gui Menga inspired calligraphers to explore the use of negative space. After sketching in pencil, I painted the background, allowing the lily bells to emerge. Watercolour, opaque watercolour, and graphite on Fabriano 140# HP.