Oriental Poppy

One of the most dramatic poppies, the oriental or Papaver orientale, is native to southwest Asia.  Some of its spectacular flowers are as big as peonies.  They range in shades of pink through to red with 4 inch dark centers. 

"Oriental Poppy"      © Kathy Dunham 2011

First Light of the Morning

The first light awakens many things.  Birds, animals and of course flowers.  This poppies was just beginning to open it's petals when the sun hit it.  Those wrinkles won't be as pronounced once the petals are fully opened but they do add character.


"First Light of the Morning"    © Kathy Dunham 2010

After the Rain

Rain drops nestle on the hairs of an unopened poppy. Luckily it only rained at night while we were in Giverny to tour the garden and spend some time painting Monet's floralscapes.

"After the Rain" © Kathy Dunham 2009

California Gold

The poppies haven't started to bloom yet but it's getting close. The California Poppy Preserve outside Lancaster offers spectacular views of hillsides covered with acres and acres of golden poppies.

"California Gold" © Kathy Dunham 2009