Bringing Classic Characters to Life
Kerry Darlington, renowned for her vibrant storytelling through art, makes her highly anticipated debut with a stunning first piece inspired by The Wind in the Willows, "Moongazing In The Willows". This artwork marks the beginning of a new series from the artist, capturing the beloved characters and timeless charm of Kenneth Grahame's classic tale..
A MOONLIT TRIBUTE TO TIMELESS TALES
In Moongazing In The Willows, Kerry Darlington transports us to the tranquil River Thames, where Ratty, Mole, Badger, and Toad bask in the serenity of a moonlit evening. This riverside scene, inspired by The Wind in the Willows, encapsulates the themes of friendship, nostalgia, and the awe of nature that Grahame’s story is known for.
“Wind in the Willows is another timeless classic with the four friends in an idyllic setting of the riverbank...It’s a story of friendship really”
The moon in this piece is more than a source of light; it’s as much a character as the animals themselves. Suspended in the night sky, it radiates a quiet presence that unites the characters and viewers alike. Above, a curtain of ethereal silver-green willow branches gently parts, framing the moon in all its splendour. This masterful interplay of light and shadow creates a sense of intimacy, as if we are peeking into a magical moment frozen in time.
“It’s just something about sitting, gazing at the moon whilst being in nature, which is really awe-inspiring.”
Below, Darlington’s iconic textured patterns fill the lower third of the composition, evoking the rippling water of the riverbank. These abstract elements, crafted with intricate layering of paints and inks, blend naturalism with her unique artistic vision. Together, the moon and the willows create a visual harmony that is both striking and soothing.
The piece’s extraordinary use of texture and materials enhances its storytelling depth. While images of the work are captivating, they can’t fully convey the tactile beauty of Darlington’s techniques. The layers of paint, ink, and resin—combined with three-dimensional elements in the limited edition—add a tangible quality to the piece. Each glance reveals new details, drawing viewers deeper into its enchanting world.
- Medium: Limited Edition Mixed Media on board with 3D embellishments and a gloss resin finish.
- Image Size: 35.7 x 35.7 cm / 14.05" x 14.05"
- Framed Size:
- Slim Silver/Blue: 49.7 x 49.7 cm / 19.5" x 19.5"
- Standard Black / Gold: 57.5cm x 57.5 cm / 22.6" x 22.6"
- Standard White Gloss: 57.5cm x 57.5 cm / 22.6" x 22.6"
- Frame:
- Slim Silver / Blue
- Standard Black / Gold
- Standard White Gloss
- Edition Size: Only 75 Editions available worldwide and 20 Artist Proofs.
For Kerry Darlington, storytelling has always been at the heart of her work. With "Moongazing In The Willows", she embarks on a new chapter, bringing her fascination with literature and nature into the world of The Wind in the Willows. This personal and artistic connection makes the piece uniquely hers, reflecting both the charm of Kenneth Grahame’s story and her own artistic sensibilities.
Darlington’s love for the tale is deeply rooted in her childhood:
“I had a beautifully illustrated book of The Wind in the Willows, and it stayed with me.”
This childhood memory provided the foundation for "Moongazing In The Willows". Her depiction of Ratty, Mole, Badger, and Toad on the moonlit riverbank feels like an invitation into that cherished world, where nature, friendship, and tranquillity converge.
The composition itself reflects Darlington’s long-standing love for animals and the moon as recurring themes in her work:
“Over the years, I’ve painted many animals staring up at the moon. It’s a constant in my art”
This recurring motif is more than aesthetic. It’s a reflection of Darlington’s belief in the restorative power of nature and the timeless beauty of the world around us. In this artwork the moon becomes a silent witness to the bond between the characters, uniting them and inviting viewers to pause and reflect.
Owning a piece like "Moongazing In The Willows" is about more than art—it’s about capturing a moment of nostalgia and emotion. Darlington’s works have a way of transcending the canvas, offering collectors a tangible connection to the stories and themes they love.
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