When it comes to painting, Poultney artist Ruth Hamilton tends to create fantastical, richly colored landscapes. But lately, she’s flirted with a sillier subject: the lovable characters from her favorite British comedies.
Hamilton donated a series of portraits — including ones of the king of awkward, Mr. Bean; misanthropic hotel manager Basil Fawlty; and “Keeping Up Appearances'” Hyacinth Bucket (it’s pronounced Bouquet) — to Brandon’s new Compass Music and Arts Center.
The paintings were auctioned off last month at several Vermont Public Television Britcom Tea events, during which Anglophiles select which British television shows VPT will air in the coming year.
Hamilton made note-card versions of the paintings, too, which you can buy here. Proceeds benefit the Compass Music and Arts Foundation.
Seven Days caught up with Hamilton over email to find out more about the project.
SEVEN DAYS: When (and why) did you decide to start painting Britcomcharacters?
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