‘One of the great buildings of the world’
– Sir John Betjeman
A dark and rainy winter afternoon last year. Liverpool Cathedral is a complicated and difficult building to draw. I was in my hometown to show paintings in ‘Who is My Neighbour?’, an exhibition about migration and refugee issues.
The Isle of Tiree is the most westerly island of the Inner Hebrides.
It is relatively small – about twelve miles long and three miles wide
– and very flat.
Sky, sky, sky, sky.
And a bit of flat land.
These paintings are from 3 weeks ago, the first time I painted outdoors this year. I worked alongside artist Michael Daly. He asked me to use his paints, brushes and preparation techniques, which are all different to mine. I’m very happy with the results.
And thanks to David, for his kindness and hospitality in allowing us to splash and daub in his lovely garden.
An art lover’s house in Roundhay, Leeds. The owners requested a drawing in colour and I was happy to oblige. Painted last week on watermarked T & J H Kent paper from c.1950.
Finally… it is Spring in Leeds.
A local Viking who kindly agreed to sit. Pet has striking features which I am drawn to draw.
The UN says that over half a million people have crossed the Mediterranean to Europe this year.
Gledhow Valley Woods, Leeds
Also known as the combat tree. Because camouflage is the art of not being seen, practised by predators, prey, plants… and soldiers.
Saving the Beech Wood
Management proposals – Friends of GV Woods
Gledhow Valley Woods, Leeds
Beech trees in the local woods, marked with yellow dots in a proposed felling plan. I think the spots are giving the trees stronger identities…
Links:
Felling of the Beech Wood – Save Gledhow Valley Woods
Management Plan – Friends of Gledhow Valley Woods
