The Crilley Estate, Cape May, NJ

This impressionist-style painting is a heartfelt reflection of childhood summers spent in Cape May, NJ, visiting my grandmother each August. I painted it in 1988 from my grandmother's front yard — the Crilley Estate stood right across the street, and its quiet beauty and faded grandeur made a lasting impression on me.

My grandmother had a love of English Ivy that was truly her own — it covered the central part of her front lawn, spilling over her white picket fence in lush waves. In the middle of it all stood a wrought iron tripod holding a cast iron pot overflowing with red geraniums. It was the kind of yard you never forget.

Mary Crilley, the last remaining family member in the home, could no longer maintain the vast estate. The mansion was sold in 1994 and, after a meticulous restoration, is now known as the Southern Mansion — one of Cape May's most beloved landmarks. This painting preserves the estate as it looked before that transformation, rich with personal memory and Cape May history.

Now available as a fine art giclée print — a beautiful way to bring a piece of Cape May's storied past into your home.

Caring for Your Giclée Print

To keep your giclée print looking its best, display it away from direct sunlight and high humidity. Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth — avoid using water or cleaning solutions directly on the canvas. For paper prints, handle by the edges to avoid fingerprints and keep away from moisture. With proper care, your giclée print will remain vibrant for generations.

Each piece is hand-signed by the artist and shipped with care.