Have you ever felt you are not Alone?

Having depressed everyone and myself by publishing the photographs of the sad and unhappy lions at Iford Manor, I found a couple of happier lions at the same location who retain their pride and publish their portraits here.


The first lion glowered at me for daring to take his photograph without seeking permission. Once I had apologised, he posed for me again. As I pressed the shutter button, his head whipped round to stare at something or someone behind me!



When I went to photograph the other lion, he ignored me and, looking very startled, cast his gaze at something beside or behind me. Now I am not easily spooked, but it is a bit disconcerting when you turn around and there is no-one else there! A bit like the Trees, I am starting to think that when I go out with the camera, I am not alone. Perhaps it is a guiding spirit showing me the way to the unusual subjects I come across? I don't know. Do you ever get these feelings?

Artist goes Missing!

One of things to be wary of at Iford Manor is the trees. If you look behind many of them, you will find the entrance to a burrow. I am not sure what mythical creature lurks within them, but you need to take care. The unwary can be caught out.


I visited with other artists and spoke to one who painted some distance away from the others. She sought the shade of a tree to keep herself cool. I nodded and smiled as I passed her. Moments later, I looked back and she was gone. People searched high and low for her. All that remains is her chair and her painting kit. No-one has seen her since . . .

Unhappy Lions. I wonder Why?

Of the many lions overlooking the wonderful Peto Gardens at Iford Manor, this trio are certainly the most unhappy looking. I am not sure why, but just looking at them depresses me . . . Perhaps being stared at all day long has caused them to lose their Pride?

A Terracotta Green Man

While wandering around a maze of stonework at Iford Manor, I came across a very large terracotta pot and was captivated by what I took to be a merchant's face embossed on the outside of it. It was only when I looked more closely at the photograph, tonight, that I realised it depicted a 'Green Man'. According to Wikipedia, a Green Man is a sculpture, drawing or other representation of a face surrounded by or made from leaves. Branches or vines may sprout from the nose, mouth, nostrils or other parts of the face . . .

Dogs - capturing the Spirit in Stone 2

There is more to this second Dog statue than meets the eye. As soon as I saw it, I could see a similarity to the features of two dogs pictured on a memorial in the Paris Dogs Cemetery that appeared in Owen's blog - The Magic Lantern Show. I wonder if the sculptor was the same?


In the image above, notice the rope lead is hanging down with the end frayed. The animal could make a bid for freedom, but has chosen to stay.


Above, a good view of the profile of this particular man's best friend. In these days of political correctness, perhaps that should be changed to 'human's best friend' but it doesn't sound quite right? What do you think?

The view below reveals that the dog is scratching itself. Could it have fleas?

Dogs - capturing the Spirit in Stone 1

One of the most interesting discoveries at Iford Manor was two Dog statues. They were seriously large works of art, being much taller than me. The first is posed with its head raised as if looking up at its master. The expression is one of devotion. Lichen, like with so many items I have seen in recent months, is establishing itself and beginning to grow across the animal's face.

The Tinkling of Water has a Strange Effect!

A hidden corner of the pictureque Peto Garden at Iford Manor. Thank heavens I kept this video short. When I played it back, I felt a sudden need to visit the smallest room in the house. Let me know if it has the same effect on you?

Babes in the Wood?

Another image from Iford Manor and the Peto Garden. This is on the wall of the magical Cloisters where Opera is staged. I am not sure of the story behind this, presumably, classical panel, but one thing is sure - the cherubs [if that is what they are?] look really spooky!. What, I wonder, is their intent and just what are they doing to that tree. Remember to click on the image for a closer view - look closely at their eyes, but not for too long . . .

Faces in the Trees 3

As I walked away from Iford Manor, I turned around and saw another tree watching me. I seem to have a knack for catching them unawares. So surprised is this one, it is open-mouthed with astonishment. Either that, or I am not a pretty sight . . . !

Faces in the Trees 1

Today, I took time out to spend a day with the local art society and paint in the Peto Garden at Iford Manor. The Grade I Italian-style garden is famous for its tranquil beauty and was created by architect and designer Harold Peto who lived there from 1899 to 1933. Inspired by Italy and the gardens of Ancient Rome, the unique and romantic hillside landscape with an other-worldly atmosphere. It is characterised by terraces, sculptue and magnificent rural views.

Before deciding on a place to paint, I wandered around the whole garden, taking photographs of many items of interest. I noticed this wooden fence post and was surprised to find the face of a tiny monkey on it. Can you see it, too or is it just a figment of my imagination? Please let me know.