This month’s issue is full of summer painting projects and creative ideas for you to try, and what better way to begin the practical features than with an inspiring extract from Andrew Lambirth’s new book, Diana Armfield: A Lyrical Eye about the life and work of painter, Diana Armfield RA, who is also an esteemed member of our editorial panel? We reviewed this illuminating book last month, and have great pleasure in reproducing a small section on pages 12 to 15 of this issue. The extract looks at a subject close to many of our hearts – flowers – and how a thoughtfully composed painting, from the addition of the smallest detail to the application of the broadest stroke, is paramount to its overall success.