Oak Hill: The legacy of the Berry Schools begins here in this lovely Victorian-style estate. Captain Thomas Berry, his wife Frances Rhea and their eleven children, three of which were orphaned shared what must have been a busy household. Martha Berry hired the architectural firm to make extensive renovations in 1927-8 by Coolidge & Carlson, which also build the Ford Complex. Oak Hill is truly the showcase of the Berry Schools. My inspiration for this painting were the strong massive oaks casting shimmering shadows on the elegant colonnades, and the pristine white exterior contrasted against the blue sky and green folage. While a view of the sprawling lawn and trees added so much majesty to Oak Hill, I chose to paint a closer view that revealed some architectural details. However, I could not resist to add the beautiful oak that cast the gentle shadows on the subject. Fascia and Gables just seem embellish and accentuated the famous Berry Seal. The Berry Seal represents the most important foundations for life and true blessings. These are just a few of the things that inspired me to paint Oak Hill. As I painted I couldn’t help but think about the voices, the playful laughter of eleven children, the love and blessings that were shared in this home. But most of all, the inspiring vision that Martha Berry shared with all of us. For good reason, across from Oak Hill there is a place called “The Gate of Opportunity.” We are truly blessed. This is a 16 x 20 print in our Berry Series. The image itself is 13.5 x 18, and it is printed on 310g fine art paper, made of 100% cotton fliber, which is acid and lignin free, and of museum archival quality. Our printer, Bill Barley, uses UltraChrome archival pigmented inks, assuring your art will carry an investment value for over a century. The original is 24 x 30. If you are interested in a custom order of a larger print or a Giclee Canvas copy, please contact us. We will have to order, so the price is to be determined.
