Lion Park-Bolton Hill

Description

“Lion Park – Bolton Hill”

Watercolor and Ink on Paper, 8″ x 10″
by Pamela Watson

Tucked away in Baltimore’s Bolton Hill neighborhood, Lion Park feels like a secret garden in the city — lush with foliage, framed by old trees, and guarded by three noble lion statues with stories as rich as the streets around them.

This painting was inspired by a photograph I took while visiting with members of the Baltimore Painting Club. Though I wasn’t able to join their group exhibition, I couldn’t resist capturing this peaceful corner of the city in watercolor and ink.

The lions themselves have had quite a journey. Originally installed in 1879 to guard the Calvert Street Bridge, they were removed in 1957 during reconstruction for the Jones Falls Expressway — deemed “too traditional” for the new modern design. After years of being shuffled from place to place (including a long stay in storage at Druid Hill Park), they finally found a permanent home here in what became known as Lion Park, thanks to the persistence of a local resident who remembered their beauty.

This small painting celebrates not only the quiet charm of the park but also the endurance of the lions — symbols of strength, patience, and belonging.

Original Artwork by Pamela Watson

(Perfect for collectors who love Baltimore history, hidden city gems, or simply the strength and grace of lions.)