Wild Blue Chicory

About 
The vivid blue Chicory flower thrives on waste ground, frequently on the roadside.

A German folk tale relates the story of a young woman weeping for her lost love.  She could not be consoled and so was transformed into the beautiful blue flower.  Despite this sad story, the Chicory flower with its edible root and bitter, dark green leaves, is believed to be a symbol do good fortune.

This study was one of several painted before tackling a larger commission. The vivid blue flowers with their glossy petals grow on tall, wiry stems that can reach over 6 foot.  The flowers grow in abundance but as each blossom dies in just a few days, new ones develop.

I paint use the traditional Japanese brushes with black Sumi and coloured mineral inks on double Xuan paper, made from bark.   The chop placed below the signature means Graceful.