In August 1932, Frances Hodgkins and fellow artist Hannah Ritchie went on a painting excursion to Norfolk, but found the landscape extremely uninspiring and decided instead to spend time painting at Bridgenorth. Here, Hodgkins completed Sabrina’s Garden. She wrote at the time to her friend Dorothy Selby: This place is a complete wash out – Won’t do in any way – from our point of view – Hannah [Ritchie] admits she has made a mistake … depressing waste of mud flats on all sides – & flat flat landscape – a lifeless outlook. We have jogged round for 2 days & have decided against staying – she halfheartedly & I very emphatically – and are leaving Tuesday morning for Bridgenorth my old love … I am tingling with impatience to get settled – & at work.