Primarily known
for his nautical paintings, these botanicals are a departure
for R.B. Dance. A longtime avid gardener, he has for years grown
his own vegetables and flowers from seed. These particular watercolor
vignettes were painted from his own plants.
The idea of
producing a series of botanicals was suggested by his wife
Coleman, after he presented her with Echinacea Purpurea (Purple
Coneflower) for their first anniversary. After some discussion,
it was decided to produce a series of four unlimited edition
prints. An older painting, Aquilegia (Columbine), done years
ago as a gift to his daughter-in-law Kristin and son Mark,
was borrowed back for inclusion as one of the four prints.
Two new watercolors were produced from recent gardens, Rudbeckia
Fulgida ( Goldsturm Strain) was picked from a sea of black-eyed
susans in the garden, and Platycodon Grandiflorus (Balloon
Flower) was picked from specimens growing in the border.
 Having
a lifelong interest in anything that flies: aircraft, bird,
and butterflies, Mr. Dance thought it would be interesting
to include birds and butterflies often seen among the flowers.
Many of these flowers were planted not only for their own
beauty, but also to draw the interest of various birds and
butterflies they attract.
It is hoped
that this will be the first in a series of botanicals. We
invite your comments and suggestions for future subjects.
A portion
of the proceeds made from the sale of "The Botanicals" will
be donated to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
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