ARTIST Monica Coleman, who has been painting New Forest scenes for more than 35 years, is retiring.
The 72-year-old is opening her studio, at 5 Parsonage Barn Lane, Ringwood, from Saturday until September 9 (11am to 5pm) as part of the Hampshire Artists' Open Studios scheme.
She said: "I've had a wonderful time wandering with my easel under my arm along the Forest streams, through ancient woods and heather covered moors."
"I have painted scenes while up to my knees in water, had frozen feet in the snow, been barefoot in the heat and sometimes miles from anywhere."
She added: "Now my mobility is very limited so it is time to enjoy the Forest for the love of it."
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