Originally posted on Instagram, 13 February 2025.
“At this time of year, walking around Hampstead in the wind and the rain, I watch for magnolias coming into flower.
Suddenly, the buds swell up like prehistoric lightbulbs to flash the arrival of spring.
All that beauty!
Only to be rained on, blown about – and lost for another year. What a precious gift.
When I was at university there was a a magnolia outside my window (in the first year). My girlfriend (now wife) used to play JJ Cale’s song, ‘Magnolia’, and still today it echoes in my mind.
I’m so happy to be showing my magnolia pictures at Burgh House (years ago, we had our engagement party here).
As well as magnolia pics, you can preview pictures from a new series l’m working on – portraits of people in their office.
During the exhibition, I’ll also be doing a few portraits of people – in the gallery, surrounded by my pictures. That will make me very happy.
The idea is inspired by Matisse’s habit of painting the inside of his studio, with his own pictures hanging or leaning against the walls”.
John-Paul will be hosting live portrait sessions during the exhibition’s opening hours – anyone is welcome to sign up to have their portrait rendered live.
If you would like to have me do your portrait please DM so I can let you know which slots are available.
Thank you for looking.
@burghhouse1704
-If you enjoyed this post, please consider sharing it by email or on social media. Here's the link. Thanks, JPF.