Blenheim reflections in paint and poetry 

Image: Ryan Cowan

A new book unites Rod Craig’s watercolours and Peter Adamson’s verse in a lyrical tribute to Blenheim Park. We have five copies to be won  

Blending art and verse, this brings together more than 50 watercolours by Rod Craig with poems by Peter Adamson, offering a lyrical tribute to the timeless beauty of Blenheim Park. 

The hardback volume reflects two decades of Rod’s artistic devotion to the parkland surrounding Blenheim Palace. Known for his expressive and atmospheric style, Craig has long drawn inspiration from the historic Oxfordshire landscape. He also leads popular workshops and demonstrations at Blenheim during the summer, encouraging visitors to engage with the scenery through art. 

Each painting in the book is paired with Peter’s evocative poetry, creating what art historian and author Ross King describes as “a gentle, immersive journey through landscape and language.” The book also includes a thoughtful introduction exploring the traditions and techniques of watercolour. 

For Rod, Blenheim’s trees remain the most powerful muses. “On my morning walks through Capability Brown’s magnificent landscapes, it’s the trees that captivate me most – the ancient oaks, the copper beeches, the sycamores,” he says. “I will never tire of painting them, observing their changes through the seasons and reflecting on the centuries they’ve witnessed. One oak in the park is over 1,000 years old – a humbling reminder of the enduring beauty of nature. I was thrilled to have collaborated with my dear friend and colleague Peter. He’s a wonderful writer and his contribution has resulted in something far more than a simple book of paintings” 

Beautifully produced and timeless in appeal, the book is an ideal gift for art lovers, poetry enthusiasts and fans of the countryside.  

Blenheim: Reflections in Paint and Poetry is available now, priced at £15.99; visit peteradamsonwriting.com/essays/blenheim/  

How to enter

To enter our prize draw, fill in the form below before 12pm on Friday 28th November.

Where to find more prizes?

Head to our competitions page to find all of our current prizes.

Share