FROM May 3-16, the Small Gallery at Colby will be filled with a dazzling array of flowers - none of them from the National Trust Gardens, but all of them from the creative hand of Jan Hagen-Bossom. Abstract, batik, some appliqued, others embroidered or quilted - all of them full of scintillating colours and painted on silk.
'A Spiritual Journey' is the title of Jan's exhibition, and the Pembrokeshire coastline, and her own flower-filled garden is her inspiration. Jan begins all her paintings and drawings and watercolour sketches - mostly done in the spring, surrounded by birds and insects, which she readily admits is a blissful experience in itself.
Jan firmly believes that whoever eventually receives one of her paintings will also receive healing from the love and peace she attained while creating it. It is a belief which she carries through into her voluntary work with the mentally disabled; "to give encouragement to those with little self-regard is healing for both the giver and recipient," she said.
Jan will be in the gallery from 11 am to 4 pm on Saturday, May 10, to demonstrate some of her techniques and to discuss aspects of her work. It's an opportunity not to be missed, whether you are a serious student of art, or one of Colby's many visitors out to enjoy a woodland stroll when the azaleas are at their springtime best - with flowers indoors and out, you'll be spoilt for choice!
For information on this and future exhibitions, please ring (01834) 814200.
The usual two for one special garden admission offer is available on presentation of this article.