Sheet Size: 11 1/2" x 15 3/4"; Image Size: 8 1/2" x 13"

Ever since the first prints of  Paul Sawyier’s beautiful paintings were made, the demand for more had been on the increase. Discerning art buffs who purchased the original set of five such prints from the Kentucky  Historical  Society have continued to add to their collections through the years and now have an invaluable array of prints unlike any others in the entire world.

It is not often that we have been able to date one of  Sawyier’s works, but the original paintings of  Springtime on Elkhorn Creek was recently found tucked between the layers of a 1903 newspaper. Almost 100 years ago someone felt great joy in possessing it and did not want time or light to fade its freshness. We are indebted to that person.

Just as there can be little doubt that this is an early work, we are assured that the little farm house stood on the banks of South Elkhorn Creek. The flat, shelving rocks and shallow bed of water confirm this. The cottage probably does not stand today, but this gentle creek continues to wind its way to the Forks to wed North Elkhorn and become a part of  Main Elkhorn’s flow.

The vibrant green foliage, as it relates to the other values of the painting, and the fresh sycamore leaves bursting forth serve to make this charming little print a melody of springtime.

And when is life more joyful?