This autumn we were fortunate enough to travel to Rome to meet up with dear friends from Canada. Inspiration for me was everywhere. Not simply in the museums and galleries, but unexpectedly on the corner of a building – an exquisite candlelit Madonna and Child,  the beautiful pale turquoise water in a fountain and the small, worn, wooden door to the building of our apartment.

Often the best inspiration is found just wandering the streets. Looking up to catch architectural details, looking down at ancient paving stones and stylish shoes, catching a shard of light. We were staying near the Pantheon, so had the opportunity to wander around it at different times of the day. At night it was eery, imposing and magical. Looking up at the imposing columns and magnificent doors my classics art history classes came rushing back to me!

We dined in the bustling Jewish quarter and tried the local delicacy of deep fried artichokes. Then we strolled along the forceful Tiber, which was rushing and thundering by. Taking a detour across a bridge and glancing up, I found my treasure – the little Madonna and Child peacefully glowing.