Chris Darrow, has lived in South Newfane for over 50 years and has spent the bulk of his time growing daylilies and other plants.

My artistic bent comes from several sources. The main inspiration was my mother, Ellen Darrow (Aho) a life long artist working in a variety of mediums. She took inspiration from notable artists such as Picasso, Matisse and others. As such I grew up steeped in art.

My current inspiration comes from the natural world, and archaic and archeological art. I find the patterns, shapes and natural rhythm of items such as shells, seed pods and flowers, as well as fossils particularly compelling and inspiring.

As for the archeological and archaic aspect, I have always been struck by the child-like simplicity and yet deeply artistic appearance of ancient art. With this in mind I strive to put my own mark and interpretation of ancient and natural beauty.

Additionally I am fascinated with the artistic process, particularly in relation to ceramics and specifically Raku. The unpredictability and happy accidents that occur are all part of the creative process.