15 March 2012.
Well it’s feels like Spring time, a time for new beginnings, lockdown is gradually easing and, I’m in the mood for making new work. Last Summer, my son and I went walking and of course I took my drawing book. I became fascinated by the simple beauty of Wiltshire country churches. They sit with perfect patience, silently observing passers by and, offering an inviting cool space inside, a place of retreat. So it is not surprising that I have decided to use some of the drawings I made on our walks for the basis of a new series of etchings; working title, “English Churches.” What better church to start with than the parish church at Biddestone, who has remained untouched since the Medieval times.
![](https://catonge.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Biddestone-Sketchbook-1024x661.jpg)
![](https://catonge.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Biddestone-II-1024x709.jpg)
![](https://catonge.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Biddestone-III-1024x707.jpg)
But which viewpoint to choose? The pathway is an obvious choice but is it too static? I love the cottage-garden flowers, lavender and scabious, tumbling across the gravel path and round the gravestones. Perhaps a low down view is better, down amongst the bees. When we visited in June although it was dark and a bit foreboding under the ancient yew trees the church yard itself was buzzing with life.
![](https://catonge.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Biddestone-I-1-1024x848.jpg)
So, that’s decided, a view towards the South Door, under the yews, through the flowers, alive with bees.
Sitting here, I wonder how many brides have stepped this way and how many relatives have been laid to rest amongst the flowers.