poppy pods by the root!

Behind the Scenes - Art Work for my Root to Rise Flyer

The art work for my Root to Rise flyer unfolded unexpectedly. I was volunteering at the edible  flower garden at the Allen Road’s Gardens by the Penn State Extension Office in Carlisle, PA. Bob MacGregor, master gardener extraordinaire, with 69,000 plus volunteer hours, was working in another area of the gardens. 

I asked if I could take a few poppy pods home to paint - the colors were subtle but intense - ivory, burnt Sienna, burgundy and touches of violet. He said, “Sure! Take the whole thing!” and he ripped a plant up by the root and handed it to me. It seemed unfair to only draw the pods, so I sketched the entire plant. Close ups of the pods with the vibrant colors would have to wait. 

When I was looking through my sketches for art work for my Root to Rise flyer,
​ it seemed the perfect choice!