What an amazing woman and so talented. I've downloaded the book. Thank you to those who have recommended Eva Ibbotson's work. Madensky Square is free to listen to if you have an Audible membership, if that's your thing.
I thought I'd read all Eva Ibbotson's books (or at least the adult ones, although I do read children's books too) but didn't know about Madensky Square. Have ordered, and also hitherto unknown Company of Swans and Magic Flutes. I don't know how I could have missed so many, I'm normally a completist when I find someone I like. Also, hard agree on the astonishing boy in the Piano. I like the whole series (and the one before), it feels to me joyous, often touching, and life-affirming, qualities which are rare enough (especially if you hate and avoid as I do American-style "upbeat and heartwarming"). And to anyone who says "what's the difference?" I can only say I know it when I see it.
I can’t get my head around the devotion to do something like that. Mildred must have been totally without fear. Where have all our bona fide eccentrics gone? If you wanted to do this nowadays I think you’d spend two years mired in planning and health and safety.
They had money - I think they spent something like £2000 on the church, a vast sum in those days. I expect it insulated them from anyone trying to interfere.
I adore Eva Ibbotson’s books - Madensky Square is a go-to on blue days. And painted churches too. Thank you for adding this new one to my list of places I should go. Some make me want to lie on my back and laugh for joy (though only when there’s nobody watching)
I love them too - she is so clever - I've got the lot! And I do love the mermaid vicar. And still oddly, I can't like your comment. Which is maddening! Anyway I do like it.
A propos the singing mermaid vicar, did you see that extraordinary young man on The Piano last Sunday evening? Quite the most ethereal voice which delivered celestial music in an unknown language with baroque keyboard going on underneath. I didn’t want it to end.
Late to the party here, but as an annual visitor to Hawker's church in Morwenstow, you should know that the rev gent also smoked opium...
What an amazing woman and so talented. I've downloaded the book. Thank you to those who have recommended Eva Ibbotson's work. Madensky Square is free to listen to if you have an Audible membership, if that's your thing.
I loved that post:
India, you must go to Mount Stuart on the Isle of Bute. Amazing colours of marble from all over the world.
A beautiful white marble chapel too
Sounds like I must. Have been a few times - annoyed didn't know about it.
Have just read the Hawker link - I love everything about him! A film must be made.
Right? Best story ever.
I thought I'd read all Eva Ibbotson's books (or at least the adult ones, although I do read children's books too) but didn't know about Madensky Square. Have ordered, and also hitherto unknown Company of Swans and Magic Flutes. I don't know how I could have missed so many, I'm normally a completist when I find someone I like. Also, hard agree on the astonishing boy in the Piano. I like the whole series (and the one before), it feels to me joyous, often touching, and life-affirming, qualities which are rare enough (especially if you hate and avoid as I do American-style "upbeat and heartwarming"). And to anyone who says "what's the difference?" I can only say I know it when I see it.
Wow! This is just amazing! The Huntingfield Paintress is free with Kindle Unlimited so now I know my next read! 😊
Oh that's good!
This is such a gorgeous post — I am following every link included in it — what a remarkable woman and what a stunning church!
Thank you and I'm so glad you found it interesting - whole thing is extraordinary. Someone should make a film!
Yes!
I can’t get my head around the devotion to do something like that. Mildred must have been totally without fear. Where have all our bona fide eccentrics gone? If you wanted to do this nowadays I think you’d spend two years mired in planning and health and safety.
They had money - I think they spent something like £2000 on the church, a vast sum in those days. I expect it insulated them from anyone trying to interfere.
I adore Eva Ibbotson’s books - Madensky Square is a go-to on blue days. And painted churches too. Thank you for adding this new one to my list of places I should go. Some make me want to lie on my back and laugh for joy (though only when there’s nobody watching)
I love them too - she is so clever - I've got the lot! And I do love the mermaid vicar. And still oddly, I can't like your comment. Which is maddening! Anyway I do like it.
Me too, I LOVE them (EI books). On back laughing for joy should be encouraged!
A propos the singing mermaid vicar, did you see that extraordinary young man on The Piano last Sunday evening? Quite the most ethereal voice which delivered celestial music in an unknown language with baroque keyboard going on underneath. I didn’t want it to end.
No but that's made me want to go looking for it.
Do - I’d love to know what you think! Lang Lang called him a Genius. (Sideways thought, if he were Welsh, would he be Llang Llang?)
Another church added to my list of churches to visit - thank you for the heads up!
You are very welcome. It's quite something.
I would insist on being Mildred’s mate. Hawker’s story is so filmic. Right down to the funeral with everyone in purple
Hawker's story is incredible. How there hasn't been a film is a mystery.
Thank you India, I feel a pilgrimage coming on!!
Excellent.
Another beautifully painted chapel by a female artist is Watts Chapel in Surrey. A jewellery box like space - arts and crafts angels. My favourite!
https://inigo.com/almanac/a-place-like-no-other-watts-chapel-mary-watts-compton
That is absolutely wonderful. I'd never heard of it - will make a point of going. Thank you!
Thank you a very good reason to visit I feel !!
Very much so!
So beautiful!
Isn't it amazing? The pics don't properly show the extreme brightness.
That blue - so vibrant! 💙