My Version of The Giving Tree in City Island

Details: Acrylic and embroidery on canvas | 36” H x 12” W | Click any image to enlarge.

Inspiration: Across the street from me towers a majestic pine shaped almost perfectly like a Christmas tree. In spring, it’s festooned with fern-like fronds that later carpet cars and sidewalks in brittle brown needles. By winter, the branches stand stark except for 4–5 inch pairs of dangling pods bracing against the cold. Looking up at it has always made me pause — and take yet another photo.

Process: I have been on a blue sky kick, helpfully fueled by the irresistible hue of Cerulean Blue. But those pods were daunting, especially for hand sewing. Then I discovered the French knot. Hundreds and hundreds of green and brown knots later, I feel I finally captured the view.