Tom Neel created a painting filled with creativity and symbolism for Patrick O'Connell, acclaimed chef, author and owner of the double five-star Inn at Little Washington. Neel was recently commissioned by O'Connell to create the celebratory painting "Onward and Upward" for The Inn's 30th Anniversary. A fresh new image was required to celebrate the special occasion and Neel, who is celebrating his 20th year as a fine artist, agreed with O'Connell that the painting should be imbued with "sophisticated whimsy."

"That is the Inn," said Neel, "…and my relationship with the Inn has allowed me to see from the inside, that for the Inn's guests, this is not just about incredible food and a nice place to stay, but rather, an amazing experience that everyone should treat themselves to at least once in their life."

The painting's title "Onward and Upward," not only speaks of where the Inn goes from here, but of the accolades that propelled it to one of only ten establishments in the United States to hold the prestigious Mobil 5 star rating for both restaurant and hotel. The ornate balloon that is the central focus of the painting is adorned with 30 gold stars representing not only the Inn's 30 great years, but the many, many awards it has received for excellence. A ring of pearlescent globe lights symbolize the 30th anniversary gift of the pearl. The Inn's logos, the swan and the fleur-de-lis, branding it as a Relais & Chateaux establishment are depicted, along with the two Dalmatians who are the Inn's old mascots. Capital Hill is visible to symbolize how closely the two "Washingtons" are linked.

"Tom captured the spirit of our 30th Anniversary wonderfully in this painting," says Patrick O'Connell. "It's the perfect visual image."

No small statement from a gentleman who has pleased the most discriminating palates, including that of the Queen. To learn more about Tom Neel you may visit www.thomasneel.com and for more information about Inn's celebration visit www.theinnatlittlewashington.com