This is my preparation for a new painting that I have been working on. The charcoal sketch was to get a feel for the composition. I then did a small colour study with blocks of colour and kept a note of those used as small swatches. At this point I get quite excited about a painting as I can see how I want to complete the work.
My inspiration for this painting was after a visit to the newly renovated McManus Gallery in Dundee. I loved doing the small paintings within a painting. I wonder what the little girl is thinking?
I got out my oil pastels today to do a study of Pittenweem harbour. The reflections on the water attracted me to this scene. As always Pittenweem is always a delight to the eye with all those colours on the boats, houses and water.
I couldn’t resist this subject! Puddles can be so much fun. I enjoy doing my figurative work in pastel.
This is a new studio painting. I love the sense of wonder that children just can’t hide when they are enthralled by nature. I enjoyed using some unusual colours for this painting.
Here is a painting I did today of my favourite beach on Islay. It was windy when I was there however very sunny and colourful.
This is a plein air study I did on a walk at Jura House Gardens. The walk took you through bluebell woods to this view of the sea. There was a bench to enjoy the view and soak up the sun. I did this painting while sitting at the bench. The water was so clear and the colour so beautiful, very inviting. I didn’t go for a swim, however by the time we got down to the shore someone was swimming in the crystal clear water.
On Saturday we went to the Isle of May sailing from Anstruther. We were in search of puffins who were out fishing at sea! There was a few on the island however which were a joy to watch. Lots of other sea birds everywhere. You need to be careful to watch for the eiders nesting very close to the footpaths. I did this study on the island buffeted by the wind. The constant movement of my board helped create some of the movement in the painting.
Andrew took this picture of me at Auchmithie. I was happily painting away oblivious to anything else going on apart from what I was doing.
Auchmithie is one of my favourite places to escape to and paint outdoors. It is especially appealing when there are lots of crashing waves. The sound is just amazing as the large pebbles crash together. On Saturday the waves were wonderful. This is one of my watercolour studies I did in situ.