Meadow Mischief — A Puzzle Full of Charm and Whimsy

This is a puzzle that doesn’t just challenge your mind but tells a story. That’s exactly what inspired my latest design for Ravensburger: Meadow Mischief is a vibrant, playful tribute to those quiet corners of the countryside where wildflowers reign supreme and nature seems to whisper its secrets.

When I first began sketching Meadow Mischief, I knew I wanted to capture the joyful chaos of badgers in a meadow full of buzzing bees, fluttering butterflies, dappled sunlight dancing through tall grasses, and maybe just a hint of mischief hidden in every nook. This isn’t just a picture to assemble; it’s a scene to get lost in.

Every tiny detail from the pattern of petals to the colours was designed to reward patience and spark joy.

Meadow Mischief is a satisfying challenge. With Ravensburger’s signature precision-cut pieces and a tapestry of tones and textures, this puzzle balances:

• Engaging complexity - varied regions that keep you guessing

• Visual satisfaction - clear reference points and delightful details

• Relaxing flow - a composition that feels almost meditative to assemble

Whether you’re easing into a lazy weekend afternoon or teaming up with fellow puzzlers for a marathon session, this piece invites you in and keeps you smiling.

Why This Design Matters to Me

As an artist, I gravitate toward scenes that feel alive, moments that seem to move even in stillness. Meadows have that spirit, a riot of life and colour in a peaceful setting. With Meadow Mischief, I wanted to bottle that feeling, the harmony and the hilarity tucked into every petal and blade of grass.

To anyone who picks up this puzzle: thank you. I hope it brings you as much joy in assembling as it brought me in creating.

Ailsa Black 2026 Calendar 

I’m delighted to share my 2026 calendar with you. Each year I carefully select a collection of my paintings that I hope will bring a little warmth, colour, and joy into your home all year long.

For the cover, I chose a piece that celebrates some of my favourite themes – busy bees, bold flowers, and a cosy cottage under a glowing sky. I love how the bright pink tulips and blue globe thistles frame the scene, while the golden moon shines over the little house with its sunny yellow door and red post box. It’s a simple scene, but one that always makes me smile.

Inside, you’ll find thirteen of my artworks, each one inspired by the small moments and familiar sights of life in Scotland – quirky wildlife, cheerful coastal cottages, and the beauty of our countryside and gardens. My paintings are about capturing joy in the everyday, and I hope that each month brings you a smile or a gentle reminder to notice the little things around you. Also included is the extra month of January 2027 so you can really plan ahead.

This calendar is designed not just to help you keep track of dates, but also to brighten your walls with colour and character throughout the year.

Thank you for supporting my work – I truly hope my 2026 calendar brings a touch of happiness to your days.

With love,
Ailsa 

I'm so excited to be taking part in the 2025 Spring Fling Open Studio Event from the 24th to 26th May. I'll have lots of new paintings, cards, prints, textiles and more. 

Spring Fling is a fabulous visual art and craft open studios event covering the length and breadth of Dumfries and Galloway in South West Scotland. It is highly regarded as one of the UK’s most successful contemporary visual art and craft open studio events.

I have created two new big paintings, some dog portraits and new coastal scenes. I'm looking forward to seeing you.

To find out more please visit here.