Phil Adams proposed to his partner, Lisa Male, at Clarendon Fine Art in Chichester on Valentine’s Day, inspired by a piece of artwork by British artist Doug Hyde.
The proposal centred around Hyde’s piece Love Found Us, which Mr Adams first noticed in the window of the gallery’s Bournemouth branch.
Phil Adams said: “I saw the picture, and it stopped me in my tracks. I wanted to buy it there and then, but time and circumstances didn’t allow.
“However, it sparked an idea – one that culminated in what happened at the Chichester Gallery on Valentine’s Day!”
With help from gallery manager Rebecca Leeland and her team, the Chichester space was transformed into the perfect setting for the proposal.
British artist Doug Hyde attended the event.
The proposal took place as Mr Adams held an artwork by Mr Hyde, which had a personal message written on the reverse: “Lisa, light of my life, star of my sky – will you marry me?”
Mr Adams then got down on one knee.
Rebecca Leeland said: “We are delighted to have been part of such a special moment for Phil and Lisa.
“This engagement is a wonderful example of how art can evoke powerful emotions and serve as the perfect backdrop to life’s most meaningful milestones.”
The couple expressed their gratitude.
They said: “Heartfelt and lifelong thanks go out to the gallery for making such an idea come wonderfully true.”
Doug Hyde’s Love Found Us is a limited edition artwork featuring his signature smiling characters holding a bright red heart beneath a gentle, softly coloured sky.
The piece is described as a celebration of togetherness, making it a fitting choice for marking significant milestones.
Clarendon Fine Art Chichester is proud to showcase Hyde’s latest collection of limited editions and original works.
Phil Adams and Lisa Male, who met through a mutual friend more than ten years ago, have spent the past decade travelling and making memories together.
The couple described marriage as “the sense of togetherness” they felt was missing from their journey.
