Above Hackfall with Kate
Original sold
Prints available
- Title: Above Hackfall With Kate
- Medium: Oil
- Substrate: 12oz cotton canvas
- Size 100cm x 80cm
- Style: Contemporary
- Frame: Yes
- Prints available: Yes
Inspired by a walk with David’s eldest daughter Kate, the view is across the Plain of York to the Hambleton hills from the meadows above Hackfall Woods near Ripon in North Yorkshire. The woods have recently been restored and are dotted with grottos, rustic temples and waterfalls and there is wildlife in abundance.
Hackfall Woods, nestled near Grewelthorpe and Masham in North Yorkshire, is a landscape of profound historical and artistic significance. This 18th-century woodland garden, originally transformed by William Aislabie, has inspired numerous artists over the centuries. Their works capture the enchanting interplay of nature and architecture within this picturesque setting.
The Artistic Legacy of Hackfall Woods
The allure of Hackfall Woods has drawn artists since the 18th century. Joseph Mallord William Turner, renowned for his evocative landscapes, visited Hackfall in 1816. His watercolour, *Hackfall on the River Ure*, showcases the dramatic vistas and architectural follies, such as Mowbray Castle and Fisher’s Hall, that define the site . Turner’s work emphasises the romantic and sublime qualities of the landscape, capturing the interplay of light and shadow amidst the woodland’s features.
Earlier, in 1766, Nicholas Dall created detailed pencil and watercolour studies of Hackfall, which are now preserved at the Tate. These works document the site’s transformation and the architectural elements introduced by Aislabie, providing valuable insights into the landscape’s evolution .
In the 19th century, artists like Harry Sutton Palmer depicted Hackfall’s vistas, such as the Vale of Mowbray from Hackfall, capturing the expansive views and the harmonious blend of natural and man-made elements. These artworks reflect the Victorian fascination with picturesque landscapes and the aesthetic appreciation of engineered natural beauty.
Modern Interpretations
Contemporary artists continue to find inspiration in Hackfall Woods. David Stead, a modern painter, has created works like Above Hackfall With Kate, which, while not directly depicting the woodland, are influenced by the surrounding landscape. His use of mixed media and expressive techniques captures the essence of the area’s natural beauty and its emotional resonance.
David’s gallery offers vibrant interpretations of Hackfall Woods. His works, available as limited edition prints, showcase the woodland’s seasonal changes and the interplay of light and colour within the forested environment.
The Enduring Charm of Hackfall Woods
Hackfall Woods remains a testament to the enduring relationship between nature and art. The site’s design, with its follies, waterfalls, and winding paths, continues to inspire artists and visitors alike. The restoration efforts by organisations like the Woodland Trust and Hackfall Trust have preserved this unique landscape, ensuring that its beauty and artistic legacy endure for future generations .
In essence, Hackfall Woods is not just a natural site but a canvas that has inspired countless artists to capture its beauty. Through their works, the woodland’s charm and historical significance continue to be celebrated, offering a glimpse into the harmonious blend of nature and art that defines this remarkable landscape.
After an original oil painting by David Stead, this beautiful limited edition print is on deep profile, archival quality canvas. The print is limited to an edition of only 150 and comes with a certificate of authentication