Summer Solstice 2026

~ Ashley

Today, I should be celebrating the Summer Solstice, the longest day in the northern hemisphere, but for this post, I decided to draw something in memory of one of my favourite artists.

David Hockney (9th July 1937 – 11th June 2026)

It is only a matter of weeks since his passing and my tribute is my version of one of his more recent paintings from his time spent in Normandy, France. I have loved his art since I first saw his work in the late 60’s and 70’s. 



Here we are,
On the hill of summer;
The longest day.

I chose this particular scene because it features an apple tree. Apple, in the Ogham Grove (*) is the guardian of the south, daylight and the summer solstice.

(*) The Ogham Grove by Yuri Leitch (ISBN 9781517653637)

Ashley

Here is a short video of the wonderful artist David Hockney:

4 thoughts on “Summer Solstice 2026”

  2. I like what Hockney said about people doing things from the fear of death, when they should be doing them from the love of life! Great insight! That’s a great painting, Ashleaf, as well as a nice hokku. I plan on celebrating midsummer by taking a hike in the woods and seeing wildlife from the love of life. Hope you and Carol have a great midsummer and hug a few trees.

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  3. Goodness, Ashley, your painting is beautiful, and Hockney would be very happy to be your inspiration! I also like his art, his views on love of life, and his insistence that he must be forever in Yorkshire after he dies.

    Joanna

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