In the heart of Gloucestershire, a captivating Christmas tale unfolds, starring artist Phoebe Dickinson and her family. But this isn't just any festive story; it's a journey of dreams fulfilled, artistic inspiration, and a unique bond with a special place.
Imagine Phoebe and her husband, Luke Rodgers, strolling through the wintry fields, reminiscing about her childhood walks. Little did they know that the enchanting red-hued house perched on the valley's slope would become their home. This house, nestled in 55 acres of farmland, marked a new beginning, intertwining their lives with its history and charm. And what a history it has! From writer and art dealer Bruce Chatwin to artist Nigel Newton, the house has been a haven for creatives. But for Phoebe and Luke, it's more than just a home; it's a canvas for their dreams.
Their journey began in Florence, where they met through friends. Luke's determination to be with Phoebe led him back to Italy, and eventually, they settled in London. Phoebe's talent as a portrait painter flourished, capturing the essence of royalty, aristocrats, and art enthusiasts alike. Yet, their London home, though beautiful, couldn't contain their growing aspirations.
The search for a new home led them back to Gloucestershire, close to Phoebe's parents, renowned art dealer Simon Dickinson and his wife. They sought a remote location, a blank canvas, and a space for Phoebe's creativity to flourish. Fate intervened when an estate agent hinted at a property soon to be on the market, owned by another art dealer. Intrigued, Phoebe and her father deduced it was the very house she and her sister Octavia had admired as children.
The house, owned by Old Master print dealer Adrian Eeles and his wife Lucretia, became the center of their new chapter. Despite the challenges of Covid and lockdowns, the purchase was sealed with tears of joy. Phoebe and Luke, with the help of their family, swiftly moved in, each with their designated tasks. The house, well-maintained by its previous owners, required minimal work, but Phoebe's artistic eye saw potential for transformation.
Phoebe's new studio, once Adrian's library, is a testament to her artistic prowess. It allows her to work on multiple paintings simultaneously, inspired by the historic houses she visits and the works of Sargent, Cadell, Lavery, and Gunn. Her paintings capture the essence of these grand homes and their gardens, from Belvoir Castle to the enchanting gardens she discovers on Instagram. These en plein air paintings are a testament to her skill, capturing the fleeting beauty of nature's light.
Beyond the studio, Luke's entrepreneurial spirit shines. He has established an online art dealership and picture-framing business, The Holwell Collection, alongside his filmmaking career. His passion for framing Phoebe's art has led to a collection of 17th and 18th-century frames, meticulously reproduced by local craftsmen. These frames, indistinguishable from the originals, are a testament to their shared appreciation for art and its presentation.
Their garden, inspired by Iford Manor in Wiltshire, is a sanctuary of tranquility. With a 'temple garden' reminiscent of Highgrove, it provides a sense of the Arcadian sublime. The family's farming endeavors, aided by a herd of sheep and cows, add a rustic charm. Lambing season, a highlight for their daughters, becomes a post-Christmas tradition, connecting them to the land.
This Christmas, Phoebe and Luke's story is a reminder that dreams can become reality. Their journey, from childhood aspirations to a life intertwined with art and history, is a testament to the power of creativity and the magic of home. And as they gather around the tree in their study, one can't help but wonder: what new adventures await this artistic family in their Cotswold farmhouse?
