The Backyard Stories was born of a love of flowers and vegetation. Floral artists Claudette Pelletier-Hannah and Cathy Friesen have collaborated to showcase their shared passion through their distinct styles and interpretations. The exhibition highlights private places and spaces, namely backyards. The yards have stories, as do their owners, illustrating the personalities and the creativity of the gardeners who build them. We asked the homeowners what their gardens meant to them. This is what we heard: “Peace and serenity, a place to work out a mood.” “It’s our oasis.” “our center of attention” “serenity from the chaos” “a place for family to gather” “We enjoy it year round from the windows.” “I like digging in the dirt.” The diversity of the landscapes and the resulting paintings demonstrate the need we all have to express ourselves in some way. The work focuses on a variety of gardens from homey to park-like. All are alive with flowers and plants in vibrant colors and bold compositions.