“As I heard about Myrea’s coming birthday, I began to think about a possible picture to send her. I made several sketches, and at last I was satisfied with this idea: A Fairy from the old book the one with a roll of material-together with a contemporary- but aged Fairy- I thought this picture showing young and old would be an appropriate thing to make for Myrea. Only I was afraid I would not manage, because you know I really don’t draw or paint now anymore. I started out, struggling with the pencil, first making the drawing. Then I wanted to paint it with water colour. I put it on very lightly, because I was afraid of dropping the brush, or splashing over the picture. Even though it is not quite finished, you can’t believe how happy and proud I was when I succeeded! I haven’t painted or drawn this much for ages! So please help me Per Arne to send this to Myrea, wishing her Happy Birthday from the depth of my heart!” Ann Mari x

( Sent from Sweden by Per Arne on behalf of 93 year old Ann Mari Sjogren, without doubt the oldest living published Fairy Artist in the World. ( see A Day in Fairyland (1947) www.fairypaintings.com)