Over the years I have come to know this Sycamore tree well. Sometimes it is my destination for a short walk and at others a resting place on a longer journey. I have approached it from all angles and know at which point on each path that I will first be able to see it. It is breathtakingly beautiful standing at the edge of the hillside, with the segmented agricultural land and distant hills lying beyond. In contrast to other trees in the area who’s branches reach eastwards, blown by westerly winds; it stands straight and strong, sheltered by the hilltop. I have visited throughout the seasons, in all kinds of weather, and never tire of being here. The Sycamore is one of several trees that I visit in this way, in the same area. My walk with the trees has become a meaningful, repetitive ritual that is both reassuringly familiar, yet always different.
I have no doubt that I will visit the Sycamore Tree again soon, and simply cannot stay away for too long, without feeling a yen to be there.
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And like an old friend you have treated the Sycamore tree on limestone well, with a wonderful painting and sketch, and with expansive photographs of the tree and the region. Well done Debbie! I really like the black and white photo, such rich tones you have captured and with such clarity. Nice!
Thanks very much Paul, I really appreciate that. I often think we get the most amazing light here for photography in Autumn and Winter, when there is not too much cloud cover, and a little snow or frost on the ground to reflect some of that light back up again.
Beautifully written. I particularly like how the landscape surrounding the tree changes as well, and seeing the sketch which begins to form a lovely painting. So many ways to experience and see this one single tree. I found myself scrolling up and down to look at it again and again, in all its forms.
Thank you Ilona, I really appreciate that and I’m very happy that you can see where I am coming from. I like to think the story behind the work is as important as the images themselves, so I’m very grateful that you took the time to read and respond.