This magnificent blue iris flower came from the Thomas garden farm in Fairfax, Virginia. Margaret Thomas, the "Iris Lady," owned and managed the farm. In May, the farm was a fabulous sight beloved by gardeners and artists alike. You can read about the Thomas farm in this vintage article from the Fairfax Times.
I visited the garden many times and took dozens of photographs which I used as inspiration for my mid-90s flower pictures. This image was done from the real thing. One May I was sketching blooms at the farm and Mrs. Thomas came up to me to see my art in progress. I told her I loved the blue flowers the most, and she snapped this full blossom off the plant and gave it to me. I was astonished at her generosity - you're not supposed to remove any of the irises until Mrs. Thomas sells them to you for your garden! In her honor I did this study of her gift.
Colored pencils on sketchbook page, 6" x 8", May 18, 1992.
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