hollyhocks
acrylic on canvas, 8 1/4 x 22 1/2 (2008)

Hollyhocks are tall, spindly, remarkable structures that stand upright in the strongest winds. They are enriched with flowers of pink, red, white, black . . . I think the colour swatches are endless actually.

Hollyhocks have big, corrugated leaves (well, when you look closely), covered in tiny hairs. They are your basic organix marvel.

Hollyhocks seem to thrive just about anywhere, and have the lovely sense of showing up entirely on their own. Whether stuck between a house and a parking lot, or outgrowing the other splendiferous plants in your rock garden, these beauties are universally welcomed. 'wish we could all say that, eh?