International Artist!

Two new paintings successfully sold and delivered to Canada.

A new painting came out of me this week. I must admit that I was in need of a diferent subject matter, and this arose after a visit to the beautiful Nidd Gorge.

He's back!

My partner created a story at the tender age of six, of which I published as a gift for is birthday (below). Its a brilliant story (obviously), and I have had immense fun creating his visual character. 

However, we are now looking at creating a second book, but possibly with a diferent drawing style. Below are just a few sketches to get our taste buds flowing.

Cute.

Grumpy.

Drunk.

Summers here!

My next date on the calendar will be the York River Art Market, starting July 15th. Ive been trying to get a bigger range of pictures together that are smaller in size, making it easier for folks to get them home. Ive been racking my brains to get a good domain name together for a website, I've lots of ideas.....

A recent smaller seascape (above) which has already found a new home, all the way out in Canada. So this one wont make it to the River Market now.

This one will though (sunset seascape). Looks amazing in a slightly shadier place. And I am hitting rock bottom prices to get more of my work to people who have a tighter budget but who would like to own an original masterpiece!

And this too. Theyre the perfect size for any wall really. Stick a frame around them and it will set off a treat. Don't forget to send me a photo though, I love to see pictures in situ.

Iam desperate to put something else in this. And think it will have to happen soon. A whales tail or something illustrative. I just cant help it.

Getting Ready

When a friend gets in touch to say that they'd love to put an exhibition on for you and another artist, it would be foolish to knock them back. And so, here I go again - although this time I have the luxury of exhibiting under cover, so no need to try and work out how to keep work protected from the elements.

There's always so much to do for an exhibition. New work is a good start. This can be satisfying if you can actually do this - and terribly upsetting if you've hit a wall, not literally obviously - although this may be easier to deal with. 

Funnily enough, I am now insured, so if anyone has a painting fall on their toes I should be able to afford a plaster or two, but insuring against damage to my work - I just couldn't afford it - so here's hoping that careful planning and adequate installing will surfice. 

Obviously *that* controversial piece will probably have to stay at home, unless they have a private back room , where people could gather around smoking cigars and drinking whisky whilst discussing its merits. Shame really. Its proving really popular - but not exactly ideal to put up in front of kids. 

So, new work almost done, I actually quite like some of the elements. A lot. Everyone will have a different take on whats good and what isn't, and it will be interesting to see peoples reaction to a higher price tag. That's what happens when you exhibit in an actual place. Rightly so, they like to take a commission. All still affordable anyway, and I am not too worried.

Next up business cards, just incase your friends cant quite remember what you do (ho ho), printing inks, card, getting your upsides downs the right way around etc etc. then cutting the buggers up. 

Transport. Getting the work there. The last couple of canvasses are a bit big for the car, and people still need to go to work. 

Installation. I'am not even thinking about this yet, it should be ok - although I am thinking forget the spirit level, which may not be good news.

Breathe. Mince pies, Susie's Cider, a special bottle or two for closer friends, or anyone that comes along. 

Secretly, I can't wait, but I am nervous. Wish me luck!

Plein Air Painting

Most of my artwork is produced within the safety of four walls, although that also adds complications in itself. Light is the main problem. Then space. Details can be lost in dim light, and furniture ends up in splattered paint, but I don't let it put me off.

Undoubtedly its easier to work inside, you can quickly reach for a tap for fresh water, or have to hand any tool that is required there and then. But are the results the same?

Working outdoors is certainly refreshing. My biggest fear of having interruptions whilst working didn't cause much issue in the end. I quite like a chat here and there. When you turn around and find yourself as one artist puts it a "tourist attraction" it can be a little unexpected.

Comfort is important. I decided at first to not bother with an easel. That was my first trip back to the car. I managed without a seat, but if I had a long time to paint, I would maybe consider taking one.

Composition. I had no real plan, and just wanted a scene to grab me. I had limited time, so I needed to decide quick.

Materials. I was so excited to use all my birthday acrylics, and instantly horrified how quick they were drying.

Clean up. Oh why hadn't I taken a roll of kitchen roll? What would people say if I cleaned my brushes in the sea? Why didn't I bring a bin bag? Doh.

In hindsight, experience offers most answers on how to work outdoors. I am fairly apt at taking a small sketch book, pencil, rubber and sharpener, but when it comes to big paintings, preparation is key. Limiting materials is handy too, as you can soon become overloaded.

Weather. I wasn't expecting thick fog for six out of seven days holiday. I was very lucky to have brilliant sunshine on my birthday.  You have to take the rough with the smooth. Large umbrellas are okay if its not windy. I had to accept my watercolours getting splashed with big droplets of rain as natures addition.

Children. If you're lucky enough to have a team out painting, then I wouldn't expect to have ownership over any materials. What you have is exactly what they want, so either take double or just enjoy the moment. 

Inside versus outside?. Painting outside has the obvious benefit of you actually painting what you see, rather that what you remember seeing. You can really feel the atmosphere and it shows. You have to be prepared, and that takes time and can only get better with experience. You can choose a secluded spot. Standing next to an open cafe is asking for interruption. Any painting is good, whether you have time to do it inside or out. Its all personal, and its all good.

Benjamin Pickle

I was delighted to bring to life in picture form a mouse character called Benjamin Pickle, created by a very talented Claire McMahon. 

Using my graphics skills I put together a potential cover for her too. Id love to see her story in print! She may or may not use this image, but who knows? I loved doing this anyway. Right up my alley. A lovely distraction from seascapes.

I was very sad to see him go, I really felt I had gotten into this little mouses mind.