The Mediterranean island of Ibiza has been the home of Gary, his partner and their dogs since 2000. In fact it was the first place Gary visited without his parents at the age of nineteen and he and his partner visited the island together dozens of time since 1985. This pine-clad Spanish island with rolling hills is probably best known for its party reputation, but it has an extraordinarily different feel to those who seek out the real Ibiza. It has provided a great deal of inspiration.

SEA VIEW FROM IBIZA’S NORTH COAST   PHOTO:  DAVE CURREY

One of the features of Ibiza that most attracted Gary was its relaxed cosmopolitan lifestyle set in the most beautiful natural surroundings. Out of a resident population of only 120,000 people there are well over 80 nationalities represented and a lively culture. The island has attracted artists since the early 20^th century and when you experience the colour, light and mood, it is easy to see why.

PEACEFUL VIEW FROM GARY’S HOME

Gary can sit in his studio and see bee-eaters, shrike, peregrine falcon, kingfishers, and herons. Or he can walk the dogs along the beach as terns dive in the sea alongside him and marsh harriers beat over the salt flats which are home to egrets, greater flamingos and black-winged stilts.

BERMUDA BUTTERCUPS WITH A TRADITIONAL WINDMILL  PHOTO: DAVE CURREY

In January the first yellow flowers start to carpet the island followed by the white almond blossom in February. By March and April the island is covered in wild flowers and the first orchids can be found in the fields and on the forest floor. The dogs return from walks smelling of wild rosemary.

ALMOND BLOSSOM COVERS IBIZA IN FEBRUARY  PHOTO: DAVE CURREY

The tourists arrive in May through to October and some wonderful restaurants open, friends visit and the sun shines almost every day. By the autumn the fungi push through the hard soil and the first rains bring a new lush feel to the mainly sunny days that lead up to Christmas.

LOOKING SOUTH ACROSS IBIZA’S UNSPOILT LANDSCAPE  PHOTO: DAVE CURREY

Ibiza has a powerful energy and for those who love it, this provides a strong attraction. It has been said that this helps provide the creativity that painters, writers and all artists crave for. Whatever the reasons the beautiful island of Ibiza has become a happy and wonderful home for Gary and is the place where he draws.

THE DOGS COOLING OFF IN THE POOL  PHOTO: DAVE CURREY