Edward Atkinson Hornel, a prominent member of the Glasgow Boy artists, was known for his extensive travels to countries such as Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Japan during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In an era where globetrotting was a challenging endeavor, Hornel’s journeys provided him with a wealth of inspiration that would shape his artistic style and influence his work for years to come.
Hornel’s travels exposed him to new cultures, landscapes, and artistic traditions, which he eagerly absorbed and incorporated into his paintings. The European appetite for exoticism during this time period only heightened the demand for Hornel’s work, as his pieces resonated with audiences who were captivated by the allure of distant lands.
One of the most significant aspects of Hornel’s travels was his collection of souvenirs and artifacts from the countries he visited. These objects, ranging from prints and ceramics to fabrics and catalogues, provided a tangible connection to the cultures and landscapes that inspired his art. Many of these items are now housed in the collection at Broughton House in Kirkcudbright, where they offer a glimpse into Hornel’s creative process and the influences that shaped his work.
The current exhibition at Broughton House, curated by the National Trust for Scotland, explores the connection between the objects collected by Hornel on his travels and the east Asian native plants that now thrive in British gardens. The exhibition showcases a range of plant imagery, including cherry blossoms, peonies, maples, bamboo, and more, highlighting the botanical diversity that inspired Hornel’s artistic vision.
One of the standout features of the exhibition is the Japanese Cherries, Vol. 1, a collection of botanical studies by Japanese botanist Miyoshi Manabu. These exquisite illustrations offer a glimpse into the beauty and intricacy of cherry blossoms, a symbol of spring and renewal that holds a special place in Japanese culture.
Visitors to Broughton House Garden can experience firsthand the beauty of the plants that inspired Hornel, from the vibrant blooms of tree and herbaceous peonies to the fiery display of Japanese maples in autumn. The garden serves as a living testament to Hornel’s artistic legacy, with each plant and flower telling a story of his travels and artistic vision.
In addition to showcasing the botanical wonders that inspired Hornel, the exhibition at Broughton House offers a fresh perspective on the heritage and collections cared for by the National Trust for Scotland. By connecting the interior of the house with the outdoor garden, the exhibition invites visitors to explore the rich history and cultural significance of the plants that have found a home in this unique setting.
Overall, the Plant Journeys exhibition at Broughton House is a celebration of the diversity of heritage collections and the stories they can tell about the tastes and experiences of past generations. Through a blend of art, history, and nature, the exhibition offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the world of Edward Atkinson Hornel and the botanical wonders that inspired his artistic vision.