The weather in BUDE had been terrible and water levels began to rise. Not good news for a bride who had to get to the church by boat instead of the usual limousine. I only learned of this incident through the work of Irene Jones. Since seeing this painting Bude Flood I have been a great admirer of this talented artist.
  
Irene's delight in the odd and unexpected shines through her work. These incidents are grounded in cosy domesticity. She is fascinated by the lives of strangers glimpsed through half drawn curtains and from the tops of buses. In her paintings she goes one step further and lifts the roofs of houses to observe a couple enjoying a morning cup of tea, their slippers parked neatly under the bed.
  
Incidents from Irenes past are filed away for use at a later date. The bossy shop assistant, the love letter waiting on the door mat, all to be embroidered into her art.
  
She has first rate draughtsmanship, colour sense and compositions which are daring. These combine with her powers of observation and imagination to create works of art that are both moving and amusing
  
Irene's kindred spirits are from a long line of English eccentric artists. Like them she allows us to see life from a different angle and feel better for it.
  
  
John Butler R.W.A
Curator
The Burton Art Gallery & Museum

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