LARGE WATERCOLOURS

Whilst watercolours are generally used for smaller format images I have been using watercolours on full imperial sheets. The control of the watercolour is more of a challenge but I still like the spontaneity it gives to the work.
These are three life drawings which are almost architectural in concept.

DRAWING OUTSIDE IN THE COLD

I have found it very difficult to work outside in sub-zero temperatures. The biggest problem is keeping the fingers warm. One can shelter behind hedges and bushes but then one is out of the sun and it feels even colder. It does focus the mind however and one only bothers with the essential information. These are two examples that I will use as a basis for studio paintings.

The trees and bushes in the cavées are mostly ancient elder and blackthorn with very tortuous shapes.

DANCING AND WATERCOLOUR

Our passion is dancing and we are just beginning to get back into the swing of regular dancing and practice. Marilyn of course has a collection of shoes. A selection of these have regularly formed the basis of still life compositions for mes élèves and for myself & Tim in the atelier.
My regular Thursday watercolour session with Tim has spent a few sessions with dancing shoes.

This pair of be-ribbonned shoes were just made for dancing!

These multi coloured escarpins were a bit more tricky for everyone but great fun

RETURN TO EARLIER MARINE SUBJECTS

A visit to Le Havre in September during a stormy period of weather instigated a couple of paintings featuring the looming, threatening skies and the still remarkable colour of the sea. These two small paintings are based on the entrance to the port. 

NOVEMBER IN THE ATELIER

After the wonderful weather in October Thursday afternoons were spent in the atelier and we were painting still lifes. It's always a interesting trying to find subjects for Tim and these are some of my attempts alongside him.

An unseasonal rose.

The inevitable bowl of fruit

And then cocktail time

PAINTING WITH TIM ON THURSDAYS

During the autumn on Thursday afternoons I have been painting with Tim one of  my most accomplished élevès. He is a keen watercolourist and I have joined in with him. In the fine weather at the beginning of October we were outside and these are some of the watercolour sketches I made during those afternoons.

The light on the beach is more golden with the low sun

and the foot of the cliffs more sombre.

In the countryside the trees just have a hint of the colours to come.

In the cavées decay and autumn takes over.

Towards the end of October and in November we have to resort to the atelier for some comfort.

Clark Collection at Giverny English video