This painting is inspired by a Potters Reception photograph of Vernon Surly on his wedding day. After attempting a realistic interpretation of this groom, I was led to fictionalise Vernon and introduce a more abstact representation of the darkly brooding romantic.
The title Magnolia Tree, is taken from the song of the same name written by April Maze. The lyrics are embedded in Vernon's coat and hat.
because i love you so
you're so good to me
i'm going to plant a magnolia tree
and it will grow tall,
and we will grow old,
then i will dig us a big wide hole.
magnolia tree
and i will go first
then you will join me
there in the shade of the magnolia tree
me in a dress
and you in a suit
we'll lie together in the tangled roots
of the magnolia tree
and our flesh will rot,
but or bones will not scatter
the roots of that tree will bind us together
in life we are married,
by a preacher in church
in death we'll be married
in the rich black earth
of the magnolia tree.
and when we are gone
our children will come
in the pouring rain and the burning sun
and they'll find comfort,
in our memory
shade and shelter under that tree
magnolia tree
