Sunflowers and Chickadees: Celebrating Fall with Art and Nature
""I want to be like a sunflower; so that even on the darkest days I will stand tall and find the sunlight." ~ Unknown
As the vibrant greens of summer turn into the warm hues of fall, the Creston Valley in British Columbia comes alive in a different way. October brings crisp mornings, rustling leaves, and the return of cozy comforts, making this a perfect time to reflect on the beauty of the changing season. This fall, I’ve been particularly inspired by two of my favorite muses: sunflowers and chickadees.
“I cannot endure to waste anything so precious as autumnal sunshine by staying in the house.” ~Nathaniel Hawthorne
Sunflowers and Their Stubborn Joy
Sunflowers, with their bold, golden faces, seem to embody resilience. No matter the cooler days or the impending frost, these flowers stand tall, following the sun and bringing brightness into the garden. One of my recent paintings, “The Treasure Hunt”, features a radiant sunflower in rich yellows and golds, a nod to the joy and warmth they bring even as the season changes.
As William Blake once said, “Ah, Sunflower! Weary of time, who countest the steps of the sun...” Sunflowers never stop seeking light, and that’s a powerful reminder as we transition through seasons in our lives.
“In the garden of life, the chickadee is a sweet reminder of nature’s beauty.”
The Charm of Chickadees
Few birds are as beloved in the Creston Valley as the chickadee. Their cheerful calls and playful demeanor make them delightful companions throughout the year, especially in fall when they seem to become even more active. Chickadees are featured in several of my new pieces, including “A Joyful Trio”, where they flutter among golden orange sunflowers, bringing a sense of whimsy and life to the canvas.
Did you know chickadees have incredible memory, often hiding seeds to eat later during the colder months? Their resilience and resourcefulness are traits I admire, and I love capturing their lively spirit in my art.
Available in "mini prints", art cards.
A Favorite Fall Soup Recipe
As the temperatures drop, I always look forward to warming up with a hearty soup. One of my favorite fall soups is a Butternut Squash and Apple Soup that’s both savory and slightly sweet, perfect for the cozy October evenings here in the Creston Valley. Here's the recipe for you to try:
Butternut Squash & Apple Soup Recipe
1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
2 apples, peeled and chopped
1 onion, chopped
3 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: A drizzle of cream or coconut milk for serving
Sauté the onions until soft, then add the cubed butternut squash and apples.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 20-30 minutes or until the squash is tender.
Blend until smooth, add cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve with a drizzle of cream or coconut milk. Enjoy!
Fall in the Creston Valley
October in the Creston Valley brings a golden glow to the hillsides and vineyards, with harvests in full swing and wildlife preparing for the colder months. It’s one of my favorite times to explore the area and gather inspiration for new pieces. The rich colors of fall, from the deep reds and oranges of the leaves to the warm yellows of the sunflowers, find their way into my work, blending the beauty of nature with the whimsy of my imagination.
Available in "mini prints", art cards.
“And the yellow sunflower by the brook, in autumn beauty stood.” ~ William Cullen Bryant
*In private collection
Follow Along on My Creative Journey
As we move through the cozy months of fall and winter, I invite you to follow along as I continue working on my latest series of bird paintings. This series will feature more of my favorites, and I can't wait to share the process with you! Keep an eye out for new additions to the collection, with each piece reflecting the beauty of nature and the joy it brings to our lives.
Explore my online shop for seasonal art pieces that will bring warmth and charm to your home during this festive time of year. Whether you're looking for the perfect gift or a special piece to decorate your space, there's something for every nature lover.
Don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest and Instagram for behind-the-scenes glimpses of my work, art tips, and more inspiration throughout the season!