Doina Moss Solo Exhibition 'Summer Passions'
At Pelisor Castle, Sinaia, Romania
Cultural exchange
A Blog by Doina Maravela Moss, Artist UAPR and Architect RIBA, FRSA
At the kind invitation of Dr. Narcis Dorin Ion, General Director of the Peles Museum, Doina has embraced the exciting challenge of organizing a solo exhibition at Pelisor Castle. Scheduled to run from June 15th to July 15th, this exhibition promises to introduce a new audience in Romania to Doina's captivating artistic vision through a collection of 31 oil paintings.
A dedicated team from Peles Castle Museum, led by Gabriela Dascalu, has been appointed to coordinate the exhibition through meticulous correspondence. Their efforts have ensured that every detail is attended to, from the design of the poster to the inclusion of all sponsors and collaborators.
Doina, based in London, UK, faced challenges shipping her paintings. With the expert assistance of “Pack and Send – Richmond” in the UK and the support of her brother, Florin Maravela, the paintings arrived successfully in Romania.
Most of the paintings were expertly framed by Leigh Warnick of "Leigh Gallery" in Hampton Hill, Richmond.
Adding an extra layer of allure to the event, the preview will feature a fashion show following the traditional speeches. Renowned designer Simona Span will present her latest collection of painted dresses, with models arriving from various locations. Among the distinguished models, Miss Romania Universe 2022, Carmina Coftas, will grace the runway, accompanied by other professional models. To complement the aesthetic splendour of the event, we have enlisted the talents of makeup artist Gabriela Chirila.
The entire event will be documented by esteemed photographers Ion Paciu and Tatiana Zigar, ensuring that the moments of artistic celebration and elegance are captured for posterity.
This exhibition at Pelisor Castle is a convergence of art, fashion, and history, creating a multidimensional experience that highlights Doina's unique artistic journey. Her paintings, rich in texture and narrative, will be beautifully juxtaposed with the historic and ornate setting of the castle, offering visitors an immersive experience that bridges the past and the present.
We invite you to join us in celebrating this remarkable event, where Doina's vibrant artworks will resonate within the historic walls of Pelisor Castle, complemented by the grace and beauty of Simona Span's fashion creations. This is not just an exhibition but a cultural event that promises to enchant and inspire all who attend.
This exhibition journey was sparked by Doina’s profound interest in researching Queen Marie of Romania, coinciding with the centennial celebration in 2018 of Romania’s formation as recognized by international leaders of the time.
The commemoration unfolded in London with a spectacular Thames Regatta, a fitting tribute to Romania’s rich history and heritage.
At the invitation of the then Ambassador, His Excellency Dan Mihalache, the renowned Olympic Gold Medallist in rowing Ivan Patzaichin designed a series of exquisite wooden boats. He assembled teams of rowers, each symbolizing a principality of Romania, to compete in the Thames Regatta. This remarkable event took place in Ham, a location near Doina’s home, providing a unique opportunity for her to engage in en plein air painting amidst the vibrant festivities.
Equipped with my canvas and oils, I sought to capture the essence of this historic event. The scene was alive with the dynamic interplay of tradition and celebration, as the beautifully crafted boats glided along the Thames, each stroke of the oars echoing Romania’s storied past. The rowers brought a palpable sense of authenticity and reverence to the regatta, their synchronized movements reflecting the unity and strength of the Romanian principalities.
The en plein air approach allowed me to immerse myself in the atmosphere, capturing the fleeting moments of the event with immediacy and intimacy. The play of light on the water, the vibrant colours of the boats, and the animated expressions of the participants all contributed to a composition that was both lively and evocative. In my composition, I focused on the finish line and captured the dynamic exit of the winning boat from the water, lifted by a giant crane. I added a symbolic battered flag, representing the centuries-long journey toward independence and union. Each brushstroke was a testament to the energy and spirit of the celebration, encapsulating the collective pride and joy of the Romanian community.
This painting not only documents a significant cultural event but also serves as a tribute to Queen Marie and her enduring legacy. It reflects the intricate tapestry of history, tradition, and identity that continues to shape Romania. Through this work, I aim to convey the profound connection between past and present, highlighting the timeless beauty and resilience of Romanian culture.
The exhibition, born from Doina’s dedication to uncovering and celebrating Romania’s heritage, offers viewers a glimpse into a pivotal moment in history, as well as the enduring spirit of a nation. It invites reflection on the ways in which art can capture and preserve the essence of cultural memory, bridging the gap between historical events and contemporary experiences.
Thames Regatta, celebrating 100 years since the Unification of Romania
This project continued with additional en plein air sessions at Peles Castle, followed by Balchik. Queen Marie of Romania was an avid and skilled horse rider, I depicted this in a painting based on archival photos, kindly provided by Ioana-Nicoleta Gaurean.
In 2021, I embarked on a deeply personal and artistic journey to Romania, taking my parents to explore the enchanting town of Sinaia in an immersive and intimate manner. Our stay at the Garrison Castle, a site steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty, offered a unique opportunity to connect more profoundly with a place that has been a part of my life since childhood.
This visit allowed me to engage in en plein air painting, capturing the essence of a location that holds a wealth of memories. The Peles Castle, with its majestic architecture and the serene beauty of its surroundings, provided an inspiring backdrop for my artistic endeavours. The familiar landscapes of Sinaia, revisited annually since my youth, presented a rich tapestry of scenes waiting to be immortalized on canvas.
The act of painting en plein air in this beloved setting was not just a technical exercise, but an emotional experience. Each brushstroke was imbued with the nostalgia of childhood explorations and the joy of sharing this special place with my parents. The interplay of light and shadow, the changing colours of the seasons, and the intricate details of the castle’s architecture all contributed to the creation of works that reflect both the beauty of Peles Castle and the depth of my personal connection to it.
Through my paintings, I aimed to convey the timeless charm of Peles Castle. The works capture the tranquil yet vibrant atmosphere of the area, celebrating its rich history and natural splendour. This artistic journey was a testament to the enduring power of place and memory, and the profound inspiration that can be drawn from revisiting cherished landscapes with loved ones.
The experience of painting in Sinaia, surrounded by the echoes of the past and the beauty of the present, reinforced the significance of en plein air practice in capturing the true spirit of a location. It was a reminder that art is not only a visual representation but also an emotional narrative, weaving together the threads of personal history and the timeless beauty of the world around us.
For more information regarding the history of Peles Castle, I recommend exploring the Museum’s website: https://peles.ro/audio-guide/parter/
While there, I captured Bran Castle, an iconic medieval fortress bestowed upon Queen Marie by the citizens of Brasov as a token of gratitude for her pivotal role in the international recognition of Romania as a unified country in 1918. This historic stronghold, perched atop the Carpathian Mountains, serves as a monumental gateway between East and West, embodying the confluence of diverse cultural and historical influences.
In the artistic representation of Bran Castle, the grandeur of its imposing structure is meticulously depicted, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Virgin European forest. The castle, reaching towards the heavens, appears almost ethereal as it intersects with the rising fog and low-lying clouds, creating a sense of being suspended between two worlds. This interplay of natural elements enhances the mystique and timelessness of the fortress.
A view of Bucegi mountains from Pestera Hotel completes our journey of Sinaia.
Following in the footsteps of Queen Marie of Romania, my next artistic sojourn took me to Balchik, where I participated in a group exhibition at the Art Museum, meticulously organized by the esteemed artist and curator, Adina Moldova Titrea. This event provided a rich platform for creative exchange and showcased a diverse array of artistic expressions. Among the fellow artists was Alexandra Teaca, a talented painter and architect, whose keen eye for design added a unique dimension to our collaborative en plein air sessions.
Together, Alexandra and I explored the enchanting grounds of the Queen’s Palace in Balchik, a site steeped in history and natural beauty. The palace gardens, with their lush landscapes and serene coastal views, offered a perfect setting for our creative endeavours. Each corner of this magnificent estate revealed new inspirations, from the intricate floral arrangements to the striking architectural elements of the palace itself.
Our sessions were not merely about capturing the external beauty of the surroundings but also about delving into the deeper connection between nature and art. The Queen’s Palace, with its harmonious blend of botanical splendour and regal architecture, served as an ideal muse. We sought to translate this harmony onto our canvases, each stroke imbued with the essence of the place.
The camaraderie with Alexandra and the shared experience of painting en plein air enriched the process. The interplay of light and shadow, the vibrant colours of the flora, and the gentle rustle of the sea breeze all contributed to a dynamic and immersive painting experience. These sessions were a testament to the timeless appeal of the Queen’s Palace and the enduring power of artistic collaboration.
Through our works, we aimed to convey the serene beauty and historical significance of Balchik, inviting viewers to experience the magic of this coastal gem. The exhibition at the Art Museum, under Adina's expert curation, highlighted the diverse interpretations of Balchik's landscape, each piece reflecting a unique perspective yet united by a shared appreciation for this remarkable locale.
Inside Quiet Nest Castle, Queen Marie’s bed location with panoramic views towards the sea
In the artistic representation of this scene, capturing both the castle and its view is pivotal. The waterfall, serving as a boundary, merges two distinct perspectives into a cohesive whole. This artistic endeavour gains a mystical dimension when a rainbow appears, a serendipitous moment immortalized by the photographer Alexandra Teaca. The rainbow, captured in a fleeting instant, symbolizes the connection between past and present, a bridge linking history with the future.
In the painting, the artist's inclusion of their own presence serves as a poignant symbol. It is an homage to the enduring legacy of Queen Marie, a reflection on the passage of time, and a hopeful glance toward the future. This artistic gesture not only pays tribute to the historical significance of the Quiet Nest but also asserts the artist's role in the continuum of its story.
In the Rose Gardens there is a place for contemplation, the neo-gothic arches with an open roof and a pond keep the air fresh and cool in the depth of the summer. This was one of Queen Marie’s favourite place to rest and I captured different angles. When we went to paint we encountered a wedding and I decided to incorporate the bride, as a symbol of serendipity of a deeper connection with the place.
A portrait of Queen Marie of Romania from the archives served as the basis for my painting, where I placed her in the Alhambra-style colonnade of her beloved rose gardens in Balchik.
Driving back from Balchik, we paused at the old border checkpoint, now a thriving artistic village on the Black Sea shores, Vama Veche. Amidst a dramatic storm with towering waves, the contrast between the dark clouds and the sun illuminating a hotel painted in rainbow colours captivated me. The entire structure, including the fence and furniture, was crafted from recycled materials, such as old shutters repurposed into a new fence. This sustainable approach is crucial, and I found the building an inspiring example of creativity and environmental responsibility.
En plein air Urban scenes in Twickenham and the view over Hammersmith.
The final section of the exhibition transports viewers into the diverse and dynamic worlds that have shaped Doina's artistic vision. This segment showcases a collection of paintings produced during her travels to her native town of Galati, as well as her exhilarating adventures skiing in the Alps. Each piece offers a unique glimpse into Doina's multifaceted experiences, blending her deep personal connections with these locations with her keen observational proficiency and artistic flair.
In her depictions of Galati, Doina captures the essence of her hometown with an intimate familiarity that only a native can convey. The chosen subject is an iconic piece of architecture, facing the river Danube. Her brushwork and palette choices evoke a sense of nostalgia and belonging, inviting viewers to explore the charming intricacies of Galati through her eyes. These works are a heartfelt homage to her roots, encapsulating the vibrancy and soul of a place that has profoundly influenced her artistic journey.
The selected piece of modern architecture, considered avant-garde in the 70s and built by local architects, holds personal significance for Doina. She used it for her drawing studies during high school in preparation for her architecture entrance exam. This connection to her past makes it an important piece in her collection.
Contrasting these scenes of Galati are Doina’s exhilarating paintings from the Alps. The dramatic mountain landscapes, captured en plein air, reflect the awe-inspiring beauty and majesty of the Alpine terrain as well as capturing some local architecture.
