- Author, Amy Walker
- Role, BBC News, South East
A Surrey artist is in Normandy for the unveiling of a D-Day painting at a ceremony attended by royalty and heads of state.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla will be among the guests at a national D-Day commemorative event at the site on Thursday, when the painting will be unveiled.
Ms Erika said while her work could be viewed by a “a very, very full house of dignitaries”, the most important response “will be from a veteran”.
The art work, which is under wraps until 11:15 BST, features sand and sea.
She described it as having “Monet vibes”, and includes former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill’s famous quote, “We shall fight on the beaches”.
It was painted in her garage and will be displayed in the main gallery of the Winston Churchill Centre for Education and Learning, at the British Normandy Memorial.
Image source, BRITISH NORMANDY MEMORIAL
So far, only a small group of friends have seen it, but Ms Erika said they “think it’s fantastic and quite a feat because of the sheer size”.
She will attend the commemoration at the memorial.
“Having a veteran look at it and feel moved or just feel proud, or any kind of emotion, will be a real honour for me,” she said.
The commemoration marks the 80th anniversary of the pivotal Normandy landings by Allied forces on 4 June 1944.
