60 Minute Art Diary

More Anne Anderson

2012-02-08T14:01:00.000-08:00

Inspired by Anne Anderson

Managed to get time during my lunch break to produce this little quickie in watercolour pencil.

Rumpelstiltskin

2012-02-05T02:54:00.000-08:00

A wonderful project on WetCanvas, Classical Forum - http://www.wetcanvas.com/forums/showthread.php?t=992492&referrerid=0

After Anne Anderson.

I used watercolour pencils and ink. It was great fun to do.

Car

2012-01-06T12:11:00.000-08:00

Page 5 of the Journal 2012.

Not so good at animated cars, but this one was fun to draw - I tried to make it look as if it was rushing in at speed although I think it just looks like its travelling leisurely downhill.

These little sketches are proving to be quite addictive!

My Hero... well, sort of!

2012-01-05T12:03:00.000-08:00

Mixed media - page 4 Journal 2012

So far he has had three different names, so I'm keeping quiet about that right now and allow him to choose his name in his own good time, but he is the hero (sort of) who assists in this exciting new project. I rather like him, even though he is just a little arrogant. :)

Kennard will guide...

2012-01-04T11:57:00.000-08:00

Page 3 of the Journal 2012.

So far I am keeping on track but drawing the dog was not the easiest thing to do. I enjoyed the background though.

Mixed media.

Enter The Shadow Witch

2012-01-03T11:51:00.000-08:00

Page 2 of my Journal 2012.

Enter The Shadow Witch who shows no mercy.

Again this is in mixed media and was lots of fun to create.

Journal 2012

2012-01-01T11:19:00.000-08:00

First day of the New Year - Happy New Year Everyone!

This is my first creative project for the New Year - I still cannot believe it is 2012! I have been having fun with mixed media. Using oil pastels and watercolours and ink (of course!).

This is the beginning of my journal and it is to be a special journal (hopefully) as I hope to add to it as often as possible throughout the year.

Experimenting with different mediums has always been a favourite pastime of mine. I enjoyed choosing the colours for this and the process of creating it. It's great fun.

Walking in the Snow

2011-12-18T23:59:00.000-08:00

Inspired by Kate Greenaway (and my daughter's family!), I painted this in watercolour and ink.

I hope it snows for Christmas.... but only briefly. :)

HAPPY CHRISTMAS!

2011-12-13T23:52:00.001-08:00

Just a few cards I painted for Christmas - may love and laughter fill your days this Christmas and throughout the New Year. HAPPY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

Love from Sharon x

The Hills are Alive!

2011-12-04T10:52:00.000-08:00

Not quite finished, but I have painted this as a present for a friend. Need to work more on the hands and face, details of course plus darks and lights.

It's all good practice and I have really enjoyed doing this.

I am hoping to finish next weekend.

Acrylics on canvas 16" x 12"

I'm a Winner!

2011-11-27T14:32:00.000-08:00

Yay! Just completed 50,556 words for the National Novel Writing Month - and ahead of the deadline (30 November). I am so pleased because I started late and did not really believe I would manage to get to the 50,000 words needed.

At least now I can get back to having some sleep! Lol

I intend to edit the novel after Christmas. You never know this could be the start of a whole new career!

The Walks

2011-11-21T10:56:00.000-08:00

There's an old Victorian Park not far from my home, I was fascinated by the wet walkway in the evening light and yet I wanted to inject colour into what might otherwise have been a dark and dull vista.

I may do more to this... not sure yet. I have to leave it sitting awhile before I decide.

Gouache Experiment

2011-11-13T12:33:00.000-08:00

Decided to try a little experiment with gouache and waterproof ink.

Firstly, drew the outline of the flower with pencil and then laid white gouache in places.

Then when the gouache was dry I painted over the whole thing with black waterproof ink.

Wait until the ink is completely dry. Then wash off under cold water using a brush to gently remove some of the ink. In theory, where the ink lays over gouache it should lift off revealing the white paper underneath and the ink where there was no gouache remains untouched.

The finish was not quite as expected - in fact, you could say it all went hideously wrong. lol

However, it is quite an interesting effect and I will try this experiment again. I quite like the effect, it's just the black lines across where it didn't quite work for me.

I think perhaps I need to lay the gouache a little thicker, allowing it to dry completely and then go over with the ink. I also think it might be better to try something a little more robust than 140 lb paper. This could be the reason the ink sunk into ridges or lines across the paper.

Gorgeous Gouache!

2011-11-07T12:47:00.001-08:00

OMG! I'm in love! I have just discovered the delights of gouache. It's like coming home, I've found my medium, it's better than chocolate even!

This is just a small quick study and maybe if I try something larger I'll come down off this cloud but so far it's so wonderful to work with.

It's like using watercolour but without transparency, it's opaqueness means that it covers even dark colours. It's easy to make changes and yet you can work in detail much easier than with oils (at least for me anyway!)

I cannot wait to have more time so that I can really get to know my new love!

Lovely Lily

2011-10-03T09:36:00.000-07:00

Watercolour on HP paper 16" x 12"

Spent all weekend painting - how lucky am I? The most wonderful time which made me wish so much that I had more time to paint, but alas bills have to be paid so it's back to the day job!

I am fast discovering a love of painting florals. Not only do you get to enjoy the visual beauty but you're also surrounded by such heavenly scents.

Obviously, this one doesn't really fit with what this blog is all about... making a painting within 60 minutes, but I really needed to show this just to prove that I can actually paint something decent.

My pride has had a dent recently and I'm feeling a little unsure of my ability to paint so every little success boosts my failing confidence and self esteem.

I hope you enjoy this one.

Lavender Fairy

2011-09-25T09:13:00.000-07:00

Coloured pencil on Stonehenge paper 7" x 5"

If there are fairies at the bottom of the garden then I hope they look something like this.... because of where I live it had to be a Lavender Fairy of course!

The coloured pencil was a departure for me - I liked that I could get detail with them easily but I find them a little difficult and not as satisfying as actual paint.

I always think that a fairy must have wings something like a butterfly, but of course it doesn't have to be that way they could be very fine and transparent like a fly.

When I fiddled with this drawing in a software programme and made it negative, I rather liked the look of the wings.... interesting.

Pointillism Cat

2011-09-20T23:20:00.000-07:00

Acrylic on Watercolour paper approx 10" x 10"

It was never intended to be a square format but that's how it ended. Sometimes that's the way life goes, you start off working towards something and along the way things change slightly and you see a different direction and go for it. That's not a bad thing, just means you're being flexible and open to change.

I liked trying pointillism, although I know it could be better. I need to work more on my colour selection and I may try another because it was rather fun to do, kind of therapeutic.

Hope you like.

Summer!

2011-09-11T13:25:00.001-07:00

Acrylic on deep canvas
Summer is almost over here but I want a painting to remind me of the long hot summer. OK so it was more short-lived than long but I need a summer landscape to help me get through the cold winter months and I rather think this should do it!

The view is from my garden at the old house and I used colours to emphasise heat and sunshine. Hope you like.

Self Portrait - Pouring Method

2011-08-19T08:50:00.000-07:00

Just experimenting here with watercolour - thought I would try the pouring method to see what I could do with it in portraiture. I think I need more practice!

I am pleased with the hair at this stage (must admit the painting looks better in real life) but I felt I might need to add more of a fleshtone to the face as presently I look kind of bruised. I may do more to it tomorrow, we'll see.

As for likeness.... well, it's getting there I feel, not quite made it yet though. :)

Update - after adding more skintone - I have a slightly healthier glow now!

Exploring Exercise!

2011-08-18T06:54:00.000-07:00

At the start of this year I promised myself that I would spend this year returning my body to some form of fitness and I embarked on a healthier diet. However, I must admit that as far as exercise was concerned after the initial excitement of getting out walking etc, my enthusiasm waned.

So within the last 3 weeks I have been attending our local Leisure Centre where you can drop into various exercise classes and try them out.

First I tried aqua aerobics which was a bit of a damp squib (ha-ha) for me as I am terrified of water and refused to move from the shallow end of the pool but I must admit the instructor was very patient and by the end of the lesson I was actually doing my exercises away from the walls unaided!

When I tried spinning. Wow, was that hard work! But you know, I loved it. The guy who led this indoor cycling class was very enthusiastic and had us cycling in the Tour de France. When we were riding uphill we had to stand and cycle but my legs being totally unco-ordinated refused to get into the rhythm so most of the time I remained seated. In this position, be warned, you are likely to get somewhat saddlesore! It was fun however and I am continuing with that class.

Next came aerobics - OMG, I hadn't done real aerobics for some years and this was such a shock to my system by the end of the class I was totally convinced of my lack of co-ordination and sense of direction. Every turn, every leg or arm movement you can bet I was doing the complete opposite to the rest of the class. Even when we did the floor exercises everybody waited while someone pointed out to me that I was facing opposite to everyone else! No, I'm not doing that one again!

Yoga next…. This is my dream exercise class, it's just perfect for me. Slow and
gentle, stretching, relaxing and deep breathing. Oh yes, my favourite by far and one that I am continuing with relish. Such serenity. Definitely good for the mind, but I also need more challenging exercise, so onward.

Now Zumba. What fun! I have never sweated so much in my life, but the dance routines and movements were wonderful. Easier for younger people but I really enjoyed myself. Hard work, but definitely worth it.

All in all it was pretty hard work, but afterwards I felt so good I knew that I must continue the exercise regime. With this in mind for the first time in my life I joined the gym. Today I am going for my induction after which I can use the gym as much as I want. I'm really looking forward to it and I'll report back to you later.

The Red Dress

2011-08-10T08:22:00.000-07:00

Acrylics in watercolour sketchbook 12" x 10"

Seems I am inspired by trees and woods lately. Asked if I could paint fairies I said no, I am no good with fantasy although I wish I were.

Anyhow this is it and I wish I had left off the wings but you live and learn!

I do like the sunlight captured here so all is not lost as I think I may be able to do something in the future with strong contrasts of light and shadow.

That's what sketchbooks are for, isn't it? Playing around and learning through play.

Child in the Woods

2011-08-09T08:08:00.000-07:00

Acrylics in watercolour sketchbook 12" x 10"

Just playing around with acrylics, trying to get texture and colour with daubing the brush around.

Turned out much better than expected but failed to capture much light.

I think I am liking figure work even though I am not too good at it. My landscapes just don't seem alive without people in them and I do love people even though they are complicated and complex and at times frustrating, somehow deep down inside we are all very similar.

Australia

2011-08-08T07:06:00.001-07:00

Acrylics in watercolour paper 12" x 10"

I am having some difficulty in getting back into painting and so I look to find some interesting challenges to inspire me.

WetCanvas is a good place to start and this challenge is about Australia - my thanks to Stacey for the use of her photo as reference.

I enjoyed doing this and hopefully I will soon rediscover my artistic muse.

Butterfly

2011-07-19T23:21:00.000-07:00

Acrylics on deep canvas

Poppies

2011-07-16T02:03:00.000-07:00

I spent a long time trying to get a likeness of a poppy and found they died so fast when cut and placed in a vase. The only way was to leave them to thrive in their own environment.

The Poppy at first glance is a simple flower, but upon closer inspection there is so much more to them and when several gather together they are astonishing in their beauty. They can make such a difference to the landscape.

Anyway, enough of my ramblings, here is my latest painting.

Acrylics on deep canvas

Couple Dancing

2011-06-25T11:51:00.000-07:00

Another small study of a Renoir painting, this one was wonderful painting the dress and I think I could make it better if I spent a little more time on it.

Studying Renoir

2011-06-24T11:38:00.000-07:00

Quick study in acrylics on canvas. Renoir's paintings are so beautiful, I love the colours and the subjects. Painting these were much more difficult than I expected, but probably due to the small size I chose.

I used deep canvas and continued the paintings around the sides which looks quite cool in real life.

Colour mixing can be frustrating, but surprisingly I really enjoyed myself. Discovered that I need a much smaller brush for detail, i.e. facial features. I may have to steal one of my small watercolour brushes for use with the acrylics.

Blue Vase

2011-06-15T13:15:00.000-07:00

Acrylics on canvas

I seem to be going through a blue phase just lately, I am attracted to everything blue. My new clothes are all in blue, my paintings lean towards blue and I feel I need the calmness of blue for healing.

I do think that colour is important and I have noticed at different times I am more attracted to one colour than another especially in the clothes that I wear. Normally I wear bright colours because it makes me feel bright and cheerful, I love reds and yellows but when I feel down I wear a lot of greys and blacks. Now, as I said, I am going through a distinctly blue phase. It's a lovely colour.

Fluffy Teddy

2011-06-14T14:03:00.000-07:00

Teddies are always such an enjoyable subject. This one is in watercolour pencil in the sketchbook and I was rather pleased with how he turned out.

Beach Baby

2011-06-13T13:34:00.000-07:00

Another baby painting as I endeavour to get to grips with figures and using acrylics.

Very quick sketch as I just wanted to get the general idea down. Poor skintones but these would be improved when doing a proper painting.

Acrylics in sketchbook.

Midnight Rose

2011-06-12T13:03:00.000-07:00

Things can look very different in the middle of the night, the lack of light alters the colours and can sometimes create an almost ghostly feel.

It's important to remember that when the light returns everything will return to it's normal state.

Acrylics in sketchbook.

Timed Out!

2011-06-10T05:13:00.000-07:00

Ran out of time here. Only able to capture the essence of the pose and I so wanted to get that lovely chaise longue, but alas time was not on my side.

Back to Life!

2011-06-09T05:08:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favourite poses, the back. However, I haven't really done it justice. Ah well, you can't win them all.

Life Forms

2011-06-08T05:01:00.000-07:00

Took a little more time getting the form with this one. I just loved the model's hair, wish I could have mine so long. :)

Drawing from life is so much better than from photographs, but it isn't any easier I can tell you. It was nice having a model to work from because friends and family really will not sit still for long enough.

Quickly captured

2011-06-07T04:56:00.000-07:00

I rather liked this pose, so relaxed. Getting the main elements of the pose quickly is hard for me particulary trying to get everything proportionately correct at the same time! Charcoal is really good for speed.

This turned out better than I expected.

I hope to improve my speed the more of these I do.

Impressionism

2011-06-06T04:44:00.000-07:00

Practising figures, this time a child, in an Impressionistic way.

Wanted to capture the warmth of the sun and of course I do need to practice children in particular.

Facing the Challenge

2011-06-05T10:51:00.000-07:00

Hurriedly sketched this one using for reference an illustration by Jessie Willcox Smith.

I just love children at this age when they're starting to get more mobile and inquisitive.

Plenty More Fish in the Sea

2011-06-04T10:43:00.000-07:00

Another after Charles Robinson. Ink with watercolour pencil. I rather like the way these fishes seem to be in conversation.

Reminds me of what my grandmother told me when I was jilted by a boyfriend... plenty more fish in the sea.

I need to practice fish, I think. We have inherited a large pond with some rather sizeable fish in and I'm thinking maybe I should get out there now the weather's warm and start painting!

Summer Days and Fairies

2011-06-03T13:35:00.000-07:00

Ink on tinted sketch paper - After Charles Robinson's The Siesta

A quick study of the illustration entitled The Siesta, which appealed to me because the fairies seem to be using a cobweb as a hammock. It reminds me of warm Summer days languidly lying in our hammock. I also adored the shape of the cat.

I could have worked more on this to give more detail, but didn't really have the time.

Mother Bear

2011-06-02T09:39:00.000-07:00

Acrylic in small sketchbook

This is Mother Bear, just a very quick sketch of her in acrylics. I was getting ready for my stint as steward at a local exhibition when she called to me to paint her and I just couldn't resist.

I still managed to get there on time so no harm done, but it just goes to prove to me that the urge to paint can occur at the most inopportune times.

Angel Scattering Autumn Leaves

2011-06-01T07:57:00.000-07:00

Ink in sketchbook

After Charles Robinson again, this time a fairy. I'm kind of pleased with it, although Charles Robinson's was of course better, but then he did add colour. I'm afraid to use colour in case I mess it up again. Ah well, it's only a drawing.... maybe I will try some colour on it after all.

If we are paralysed by fear and afraid of messing up we will never move forward, never enjoy the thrill of taking a risk and possibly succeeding. Where is the fun in that?

I think I'm ready to take a leap of faith.

Sunflowers Quick Sketch

2011-05-31T01:09:00.000-07:00

Watercolour sketchbook

Just couldn't resist going back to my old favourite Sunflowers. A quickie in the small sketchbook, but it cheers me to look at them. Sunflowers are so uplifting.

Don't worry I haven't forgotten the portraits, back to them shortly. :)

Another Try...

2011-05-30T02:32:00.000-07:00

Ink on HP paper

As you can see still no likeness, in fact I think I'm losing it totally! Trouble is I rather like this guy, if only I knew where he was. He's so cute.

OK, tomorrow I start getting serious and get down to measuring properly. Let's see if we can nail this one once and for all.

Capturing Cary

2011-05-29T09:18:00.000-07:00

Firstly, I apologise to Cary Grant for this abysmal rendering of him. He is my hero and represents for me a true gentleman. I adore his films (mostly because I like looking at him!) and among my favourites are of course An Affair to Remember, Arsenic & Old Lace and The Philadelphia Story. Of course that's just a few because I don't want to bore you with a huge list of my favourite Cary Grant films!

Anyway, back to art... I am trying again with portraits and as you can see by this one I really need to work on getting a likeness. I sure didn't get one this time! I will try again tomorrow and see what happens.

After Charles Robinson

2011-05-28T11:53:00.000-07:00

My version of Alice in Wonderland - not quite as good as Charles Robinson's but it was so lovely to use the inks again. I was pleased with this result.

Sometimes the hardest thing in life to learn is when to stop, when not to keep pushing but to hold off and allow the currents of fate to flow freely.

Unfortunately, even at my age I have not learned this lesson and did not know when to stop. I used watercolour in a very heavy handed way to add just a little colour and in so doing (to my mind) I spoilt the picture with a messy background.

Ah well, maybe next time I will take more care and just cease.

Day at the Beach

2011-05-27T10:38:00.000-07:00

Took a lone trip to the beach to get some sketching done and it was a beautiful day, warm and sunny but the beach was pretty much deserted. Everyone at work no doubt, but not me... no today I had a very special day off.

Sketched what was left of lunch.

And also my hand holding the apple juice.

Once I had finished I got back to the sketching. I was trying to get to grips with sketching birds from life. Not an easy subject, but then I'm well known for being up for a challenge! I didn't want to use photographic reference but the darn things wouldn't keep still long enough.

It was fun though. I think maybe I shall have to either get really fast in getting my sketch down or use the sketch in conjunction with photographs to make a painting especially of something so quick.

Of course a trip to the seaside is not just for children, I find a visit to the beach always lifts my spirits and the sea air is just so healing.

Teddy with Cookies

2011-05-24T00:33:00.000-07:00

Teddy with Cookies ink and watercolour

Yes, it's Teddy again, this time he has cookies to hand just in case he gets peckish! Whenever I am unsure of what to paint Teddy is there, he is definitely my favourite subject - he is part of my comfort zone and I love him. Now I just need to feel as confident with other subjects.

Will You Miss Me?

2011-05-21T17:41:00.000-07:00

Sometime when you’re feeling important,
Sometime when your ego’s in bloom,
Sometime when you take it for granted
You’re the most talented one in the room.

Sometime when you feel that your going
Would leave an unfillable hole,
Just follow these simple instructions
And see how it humbles your soul.

Take a bucket and fill it with water,
Put your hand in it up to your wrist,
Pull it out and the hole that’s remaining
Is a measure of how you’ll be missed.

You can splash all you wish when you enter,
You may stir up the water galore,
But stop, and you’ll find that in no time
It looks quiet, the same as before.

The moral of this is quite simple

You must do just the best that you can,
Be proud of yourself, but remember—
There’s no indispensable man. (Unknown)

Sobering words, don't you think? I don't know who wrote the above but it did the rounds of the offices many years ago and I have never forgotten it.

Recently when contemplating a career move these words came to mind and I realised the impact that I have made on this job is insignificant as when I leave I will soon be forgotten.

Right now everybody says the place wouldn't be the same without me and that I brighten up the whole office, which is very sweet of them but I know that when I leave, in a very short time I will be forgotten. That's life.

However, whilst I'm there I am having a great deal of fun just splashing around. That's how we get through the mundane isn't it? Making it fun.

Rare Moment of Stillness

2011-05-10T08:10:00.000-07:00

Ralfi, pencil in sketchbook

Ralfi is my dog and this is a pose he is not often caught in, stillness. I am thinking he really needs to be renamed, Houdini. He's a terrier, which seems to be his best excuse for constantly finding ways of escaping. Since moving house I have lost count of the number of times he has escaped and had me chasing him down the road, along riverbanks, etc.

I wouldn't mind so much if it was just a case of him escaping, me calling and him returning, but no.... I call his name he turns looks at me and then puts an extra spurt of energy into running even faster in the opposite direction!

I have fixed all the places where I think he may have got through to the outside world, but I fear he will outwit me yet. Ah well, I guess it's all exercise!

Reward!

2011-05-09T07:58:00.000-07:00

After Richard Doyle - ink on paper

I'm back! Yay! So long away from art and my blog... mostly because of a wretched house move, which was great but kept me from my art (ggrrrhh!) Now happily settled and made a room into a studio space so I have no excuse not to get down to some serious painting.

So, for your patience here is your Reward (the name of the above sketch)!

MORNING'S HERE

2011-03-19T13:58:00.000-07:00

After Walter Crane

2010-08-08T11:09:00.001-07:00

Ink and watercolour in A4 sketchbook

I find myself really enjoying copying illustrations and it is giving me a lot of good practice - I am learning so much.

Because I used my sketchbook for this one the watercolour wash in the background did not work so well, (a white background would have been cleaner) but I am happy to have the practice.

I have learned that sometimes it's best to leave things well alone.

Positivity wins the day and determination to improve both my art and my outlook is paramount to progress.

Back to Fitness

2010-07-15T13:52:00.000-07:00

20 mins sketch graphite on sketchpad

Working my way back to fitness, both physically and creatively. Poor health has kept me from my artwork for too long.

No more time for tears. No more wallowing. Now is the time for action.

One day at a time... gently stretching myself a little further each time, always improving, growing stronger all the way. I will show them, I won't be beaten.

Girl Holding Lemons

2010-06-07T01:00:00.000-07:00

Graphite sketch of Girl Holding Lemons

Inspired by the Bouguereau Challenge at WetCanvas (Classical forum) this month.

First of all using graphite I did this preliminary sketch of the painting by the French artist William-Adolphe Bouguereau. I want to do several sketches before I even attempt to paint so that I can work out any difficulties beforehand.

Getting the hands correct was a bit of a problem and I shall have to watch that when I come to paint this. The foreshortening on the hand to the right (or model's left hand!) in particular was awkward and I feel I must study this more thoroughly.

Sorry that the left of the sketch is dark but this is due to poor scan of my sketchbook.

Teddy and the Cookie Jar

2010-06-06T09:25:00.000-07:00

Teddy with the Cookie Jar - Ink sketch

Pencil sketch

Just sketching some ideas in readiness for my painting. I have already started the painting but I need to add stuff and these are some studies which should help when I get back to the painting.

I have recently been in hospital and unable to paint or even sketch. Glad to say I am on the mend and soooo happy to be getting back to my artwork. I have missed it so much.

Alice in Wonderland

2010-06-04T08:56:00.000-07:00

Pen and graphite

My interpretation of Alice, inspired by the illustrations of Sir John Tenniel. I love doing penwork and this was no exception, it's just so therapeutic. I added a little shading with graphite for the background.

Just watched the Disney Alice in Wonderland (with Johnny Depp) - it was brilliant, very entertaining.

Wouldn't it be great to take off to a Wonderland and figure everything out so that when we returned our problems would easily be solved?

I find painting works in a similar way for me. It's like escaping to my own magical land for a while and when I put down the paintbrush I am better able to work through my real life difficulties. Painting is just magic!

Hunca Munca - after Beatrix Potter

2010-05-19T11:18:00.000-07:00

Ink and watercolour wash 7" x 7"

I really enjoyed reading the stories of Beatrix Potter to my children and now I enjoy painting some of her little animals just for good practice. They are so delightful and Hunca Munca is one of my favourites.

Here she comes with her dustpan and brush to clean up the dolls' house.

Feeling the Rhythm

2010-04-09T10:10:00.000-07:00

Acrylics in sketchbook

Thanks to my friend, John for the loan of the photograph - I was struck by the sunny atmosphere and hope that I have captured some of that here. It is unfinished but then, that's what a sketchbook is for isn't it? To practice technique etc... not to finish. I could work up a painting from this and may do so in the future - I think it is worth exploring further.

I think the acrylics are growing on me. Surprisingly, I find I am using them more just lately.

Music has rather a magical effect doesn't it? The beat of a drum, the strumming of a guitar or the sound of a piano... all do something to the soul, lift the spirits and make me want to dance. You feel your foot tapping to the beat and it's hard to ignore... it's irresistable. Even for me, someone without any real sense of rhythm but who nevertheless loves to dance.

Thinking Time

2010-04-08T12:54:00.000-07:00

30 min study in acrylics (in sketchbook)

Quick study of Sargent's "Miss Eliza Wedgewood". Sargent's work was in watercolours but I have used acrylics just sloshed about in my sketchbook. I rather like the looseness of this. Sargent's is better of course, but I am secretly pleased at how this has turned out considering the very small amount of time spent on it.

Thinking time is needed when painting. I find I spend an awful lot of time just thinking about what I am going to paint, how I am going to paint it and even when I have painted it, time to reflect on what I have accomplished and how to move forward. Art is not just about action, but also about thought.

When the sun is shining and I feel its rays warm upon my head, it's easy to slip into daydream mode and then I find my thinking works so much better. During cold spells it's much harder to get the brain working properly. :) Roll on Summer!

Evening Beach

2010-03-15T00:04:00.001-07:00

Self Portrait in Acrylics

2010-02-21T07:04:00.000-08:00

14" x 10" acrylics on paper

This is the finished self portrait in acrylics. See below for the process of how I got here.

This was a challenge on WetCanvas to produce a self portrait in acrylics and not to display until 20th February, which is why I had to wait until now to reveal!

First the pencil drawing from which I have worked - made myself look chubbier than in real life, but who cares. I will chisel it down a little when I paint.

Transferred the image to watercolour paper 14" x 10" and I also printed the line drawing on a piece of acetate to help later when I need to check if my placements are still correct. When painting I often lose sight of what goes where and the acetate is a real boon when re-establishing the features. When placed over the painting you can see exactly where you went wrong and get back the likeness.

Then painted in acrylics, using the paint very dilute and building in thin transparent layers, which gives a very soft translucent effect very similar to watercolours. Had sooo much trouble with the area under the nose and the neck, but I have to post this image so you can see... it looks so funny. I feel I look like the poisoned dwarf with facial hair - not a good look! LOL. Oh it's good to laugh.

Then I worked more on it, darkened the background, fixed the mouth, lightened the neck and under nose area getting rid of the facial hair and produced the final painting, which I hope is a little better. :)

After Edward Lear

2010-02-17T13:23:00.000-08:00

Ink in A4 sketchbook

Had great fun with this one. I really do enjoy inkwork.

Abstract Landscape

2010-02-14T06:52:00.000-08:00

Acrylic on Paper 12" x 9"

This is an experiment in abstraction... not sure if it works, but I liked the colour combination. May try this again 'cos it was fun!

How to Get a Likeness?

2010-02-13T06:39:00.000-08:00

Pencil in Sketchbook (A4)

Sketching self portraits and finding that trying to get a likeness is not easy. I see myself differently to what others see.

I suppose there is a vague look of me about this.... though I look too young... skin too smooth. Maybe it's me around 30 years ago! LOL!

It's strange but every self portrait I do is either looking far too young or far too old... can't seem to hit a happy medium, which is where I'm at right now. Never mind, there's always the next one!

Sketching in the Dark

2010-02-12T06:24:00.000-08:00

Pencil in Sketchbook (A4)

Whilst waiting to collect my daughter from work I whiled away the time sketching the car parked in front of me. It was dark with only the street light nearby so I couldn't really see what I was doing, but fairly pleased with the outcome.

It was a lovely way to spend the time.

Yay!!! What a day!!!

2010-01-31T07:35:00.001-08:00

Acrylics on Canvas 14" x 10"

What a glorious day of painting I have had. The painting that I did in the previous post was an experiment and from it came the above. As I stood looking at my Purple Haze of mountains this scene began to take shape in my mind and so I painted it.

When I visited the Lake District (Cumbria) sometime ago I saw a white house in the valley which I believe used to belong to Beatrix Potter. It was such a lovely scene and appealed to the romantic in me. Ok, it's not exactly like this... after all my memory isn't what it used to be, but this is my white house in the valley.

I may work on it a little more, but I hope you like it.

Just Playing...

2010-01-31T07:19:00.000-08:00

I love to play and experiment with paints - it is always a very exciting voyage of discovery.

Today I wanted to rediscover acrylics. First of all using just Pthalo Blue, Titanium White and a little Payne's Grey I painted my Mountains in Blue. I painted on canvas, which was a first for me as I have always used either watercolour paper or acrylic paper for acrylic paints.

Here is the same painting, but I painted a glaze of crimson alizarin over the top. In real life it is actually more purple than here.

It was fun, but now I have been looking at it for a while and have some great ideas to push things further - I have decided to really go to town with this one. Keep watching.... I will post the result shortly.

Best wishes

Reflections

2010-01-03T04:53:00.000-08:00

Pencil in sketchbook

When I see reflections on water I always want to sketch... I just wish I were a little better at capturing them, but I'm sure with practice it will all come together.

New Year always seems to be a time for reflection... taking stock of the happenings of the previous year and thinking of the improvements for the future. One of the reasons I love the start of the year.

Positives for today:
1. New doors to replace the old - kind of symbolic I think.
2. Sound of snow melting from trees in sunlight.
3. Watching my dog enjoy the warmth from a blazing fire.

Emily

2010-01-02T02:15:00.001-08:00

Emily

I need to colour this as it will improve it no end. I love drawing cartoon figures and I rather like this one - the character of little Emily may be worth developing further... we will see.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T02:07:00.000-08:00

Pencil in sketchbook

2010 is here! Yay!!!

I'm still practising the trees. This is the latest and I am hoping that drawing them will help improve my paintings also.

I love New Year with all the new beginnings of hopes and dreams, it's such an exciting time. The whole year stretches before me and I see the things I want to happen, now all I need do is make it so!

After Arthur Rackham - Alice in Wonderland

2009-12-01T12:30:00.000-08:00

Ink and watercolour on hot pressed paper 12" x 9"

Caterpillar: By the way, I have a few more helpful hints. One side will make you grow taller...
Alice: One side of what?
Caterpillar: ...and the other side will make you grow shorter.
Alice: The other side of what?
Caterpillar: THE MUSHROOM, OF COURSE!

Wonderful stories and Arthur Rackham was a great illustrator. It was so much fun doing this. I thought I would have trouble drawing Alice, but she actually turned out OK after all.

Dum spiro spero

2009-11-23T13:19:00.000-08:00

Oils on canvas (unfinished)

Even in the darkest storm if you wait a while suddenly there is a break in the clouds and a beam of light promises hope of sunshine in the future. I focus on the light in the distance and work towards it. Soon the sun shines again and the storm has passed. Such is life. Good days, bad days but always hope. Dum spiro spero… while I breathe I hope.

The Lady Clare

2009-11-16T11:48:00.000-08:00

Study of The Lady Clare after J W Waterhouse.

Doing this I realised that I needed more time in order to get a better likeness. I am reasonably happy with this but I wish I could have caught that kind of wistful dreamy look that Waterhouse captured... it was beautiful. Still practice, as they say, makes perfect and I intend to continue trying.

Another Teddy

2009-11-10T12:08:00.000-08:00

Oils on canvas using glazing technique.

Teddy was attracted to this jar due to its shine and the pretty pattern... plus he sits quite comfortably on it. My teddies seem to have a thing about jars!

Soon he is going to venture forth into new territory.

The Three Bears

2009-11-02T14:24:00.000-08:00

60 min Ink and watercolour on HP paper 12" x 9"

This was a study of the three bears from an illustration by Arthur Rackham. I just adored the hairy Papa Bear.

I find it easy to do inkwork and it's definitely fun to use along with the watercolours. They can be intriguing and finished quite quickly, it makes a refreshing change from the large oils I am working on right now.

I am enjoying trying the challenges posted on WetCanvas especially the ones in the Classical forum and Arthur Rackham is the inspiration this month, his illustrations are becautiful and I find them very interesting so expect to see more soon!

Drawing Trees

2009-10-27T15:26:00.000-07:00

50 min pencil in sketchbook

Still stuck on trees. I feel that the more I draw and paint them the better they will become or at least I will stop worrying over them.

I really enjoyed drawing this and was surprised at the ease of my return to pencilwork, I find it very relaxing and satisfying.

Note to self: Pick up the pencil more often!

Downham Station, Bill Peet style

2009-10-26T15:07:00.000-07:00

Pen and watercolour 12" x 9"

I have wanted to paint Downham Station for some time and there are better views of it, but I thought I would have a bit of fun and do it in Bill Peet style illustration. Of course this would have to be my idea of Downham in the early years :)

The train would have been brighter but I foolishly used non-waterproof ink... and of course it ran!

I just couldn't resist incorporating that lovely horse and cart. Just love this kind of fun work.... it's sort of where my art journey began when I started drawing pencil cartoons for my kids. Fond memories.

Pirates

2009-10-08T12:44:00.001-07:00

One more After Howard Pyle - Ink and wash

Really had fun with this. I must admit there is something about ink and wash that is really compelling and this is all helping in my practice.

Sorry about the image, the sea is actually not pink in the real painting, but the scanner is not too good at keeping the colours true.

Searching for treasure is quite appealing, but true treasures are often found in unexpected places and not at all what you might think - for instance they have nothing to do with financial gain. Look harder for the things that truly warm your heart and make your soul sing.

Toyota Aygo

2009-09-24T11:27:00.001-07:00

25 min wc pencil and watercolours in sketchbook

A few minutes to spare waiting in a car park, what else to sketch but a car? My son recognised what it was immediately which was comforting. I must be getting better at cars... maybe.

Lady of the Lake

2009-09-23T11:31:00.000-07:00

Lady of The Lake after Howard Pyle

I really enjoy inkwork, there's something so relaxing about inking... its really me!

Teddy's Surprise

2009-09-20T09:56:00.000-07:00

60 minute study 10" x 8" oils on deep canvas

It was evident that Teddy was surprised. He had thought there was nothing in the world that could surprise him anymore, he had seen it all. But this.... was something else.

Teddy in Sienna

2009-09-11T15:02:00.000-07:00

60 min water mixable oils on canvas paper

Used limited palette of raw sienna, burnt sienna, ivory black and titanium white.

I rather like Teddy's new look and I really enjoyed the challenge of using such a limited palette. It freed me from worrying too much over colour and gave me the opportunity to concentrate more on moulding the form, getting the light/dark contrasts and having a whole lot of fun!

I will be using this palette again I think in a larger work on canvas.

After Howard Pyle

2009-09-03T09:56:00.000-07:00

Ink on HP paper

Howard Pyle was a children's book illustrator and amongst other things he illustrated pirate and adventure stories. I just love a good story and as I also love inkwork I couldn't resist having a go at this one... tells it's own story, doesn't it?

These little studies are all drawn freehand in ink and then ink washes applied. I find working in ink much easier than working in paint. Perhaps it's because I am not worrying so much about colour and concentrating more on values.

After Wanda Gag

2009-08-29T14:26:00.001-07:00

Ink on Hot Pressed paper 12" x 9"

A project on Wetcanvas is looking at children's illustrator, Wanda Gag and it inspired me to paint this little sketch in ink. I just loved painting the cat.

Waterfall

2009-08-26T14:13:00.000-07:00

Ink and watercolour 14" x 10"

Be like the waterfall.... overcome all obstacles in life to reach your destiny.

Secret Messages

2009-08-23T14:36:00.000-07:00

30 min tree study watercolour in sketchbook

My imagination got the better of me when I spotted this tree.... such a handy place for lovers to leave secret messages. Ah, I'm such a romantic!

Teddy with Sunflowers

2009-08-16T02:09:00.001-07:00

60 min Ink and wash

This is one of the preliminary studies I did in ink and wash before working on a similar set up for a large oil painting.

I really like teddies and this is one of my favourites - of course the had to be teamed with my favourite flowers too.

The Bandstand

2009-08-10T14:06:00.000-07:00

60 min Ink and Watercolour

During a day of freedom, took the sketchbook to the park and spent a wonderful hour painting en plein air. Such an exhilirating experience to have so long to enjoy my sketching.

The bandstand is on a little island in the park and I was attracted to it as I thought it would be a challenge since buildings and such are not my strong point!

I rather like the little sketch and hope sometime to be able to make a real painting from it.

Portrait of the Artist

2009-08-01T00:12:00.000-07:00

30 min ink and watercolour

Just started a week's holiday from work and it feels so good to be able to paint again!

Today I am doing plein air. At first I was unsure, but then if you never take a chance you will never discover what you are capable of. Grasp the nettle!

Sunflowers in Ink and Wash

2009-07-25T15:01:00.000-07:00

40 min ink and wash on tinted card

The best part of the week I bought two bunches of sunflowers on special offer and took one to the office and one home, so I am surrounded by sunshine!

I am still hooked on the sunflowers and am busy on another large oil painting, but I had time to do a quick study in my favourite medium.

Really lifted my spirits.

Two Trees

2009-07-24T14:53:00.000-07:00

15 min sketch in sketchbook

On the drive home I noticed these strange tree shapes and just had to sketch them.

Forever reaching out yet unattainable.

Over the Gate

2009-07-23T14:45:00.000-07:00

15 min quick sketch

The horse was determined to get through the gate, but he was just too big to fit through the gap.

Why do we always think life is better on the other side of the gate when all we need do is turn around and see the beauty in what we already have?

Small Flowers

2009-07-20T14:41:00.000-07:00

10 min ink in sketchbook.

Small flowers, not sure what they are but they were quite pretty and so I did a quick little study.

It's been a difficult week with not much time to sketch.

Meditation Moment

2009-07-18T09:48:00.000-07:00

25 min Watercolour and ink on postcard 6" x 4"

A tranquil mood, time for peace. I like this pose.

Real relaxation begins with clearing the mind.

Tree Study

2009-07-16T10:11:00.000-07:00

15 min study in watercolour pencils on postcard 6" x 4"

Trying to get to grips with what trees are all about. Solid, alive and wonderfully textured.

Old Brickwork

2009-07-15T10:15:00.000-07:00

10 min study of old brickwork... watercolour on paper.

I love old brickwork, like many ancient things it has such character.

I have to capture that character and so I think there will be a few more of these studies until I am happy with my progress.

Kate Greenaway Study

2009-07-07T14:10:00.000-07:00

30 min ink and watercolours on tinted card 8" x 6"

Inspired by a project on WetCanvas I enjoyed doing this little study of a Kate Greenaway illustration.

Not such a good study, but I really enjoyed myself. I think I will do more ink and watercolours. I had almost forgotten how much I love watercolours... soon time to get my brushes wet again!

South Gates

2009-07-05T14:02:00.000-07:00

20 min sketch at the South Gates.

Quiet Sunday morning and a different town... the place where my roots are.

There are ruins of the old town wall all around but this is the most dramatic, the old South Gates... these days cars pass through it and beside it.

Every time I pass through I think what a wonderful painting it would make but it's a busy road and difficult to get a good place to paint. However, Sunday morning is ideal and I managed a quick sketch before I passed by today.

Not such a good sketch, but next time maybe I will get more time.

View from Market Square

2009-07-04T13:47:00.000-07:00

20 min Ink sketch from Market Square (the steps on the left lead up into the Buttercross).

Very hot day but I needed to sketch and here is my effort for the day.

The Buttercross

2009-07-03T13:40:00.000-07:00

This is called the Buttercross and it stands in the market square. It used to be a place where butter was sold or so I understand... anyway, it's a landmark in this town and a place where people sit in the summer. I like it.

Sorry about the poor drawing of cars, they are not my best subject!