Well, it seems that every time I go on holiday in the UK now, there’s a guaranteed ramping up of restrictions the week afterwards. I can’t say I’m shocked – this week has been a little more predictable than when we came back from our Norfolk holiday on 21st March (I wrote about that trip away too). Back then, I was only just starting to get back into my artwork and I can’t believe how long ago that feels now!
I tried to stay positive last time and I’ll try to stay positive this time too. So, what do I have to say this time round? Well, last week I was lucky enough to go to Harlech on the Welsh coast and, like Norfolk, it’s definitely given me some inspiration for future pieces…
Let’s start with seabirds. I loved seeing the oystercatchers and curlews on the beach and even saw some sanderlings (I don’t think I’ve seen these before). This was in addition to the usual gulls, wagtails and geese that you see by the coast. So far, I’ve started off a pen drawing of a curlew and I’m disciplining myself to take the time to do the detail properly – there’s a sneaky peek below, but I think it may well justify its own blog post.
I’m also toying with the idea of focusing some future pieces on mammals (if I’m brave enough that is!) I haven’t really branched into the mammalian world so far, but we saw some seals and their pups while we were away and had some encounters with a whole variety of sheep. So I might have to bite the bullet and have a go!
If making a mammal the star of the piece is far too much, another option I’ve considered is to include a few animals in a range of landscapes. I love the coast so much and it always amazes me how the same place can look so different each time you visit it. The Welsh hills also treated us to some spectacular views – and boy were the hills steep!!! It’s safe to say that there are a lot of ideas in my head so I’ll keep you posted about what eventually spews out!
Oh, and a final update, I recently completed my first commission! I wasn’t sure I could do it justice at first but I was really pleased with it in the end and, more importantly, my first customer was very pleased too. Since then, I’ve been overwhelmed by the family and friends who are interested in commissioning pieces as well. Thank you – it really does mean a lot! 😊
Ramblings of a (very!) amateur artist 