(12 x 16 in - Oil on canvas) September 2022
I love the Lake District and I love the outdoors- it has saved me, helped me get through a difficult time in my life as a single dad, given us purpose to go on adventures in truly beautiful landscapes. My single dad life kickstarted in the first lockdown, so I think a lot of people will share that feeling of need to be in nature.
My late Mother who passed nearly a year and half ago went on painting holidays to The Lakes - also captivated and I was glad that I was able to scatter some of her ashes near Derwentwater that she loved so much.
Last September inspired by others I thought it would be a good idea to experience wild camping and wake up to a dawn over the mountains. My dog Alfie and I with the right gear found a good spot on recommendation overlooking Ullswater. We were late to set up and actually finished setting up the tent in the dark. The night was long and windy - but a good experiene and one that I will definitely do again!
By morning, I found a little beach to have breakfast and coffee. When jumping in the car I had had the thought to chuck in my painting gear just in case - if the opportunity presented itself. The beach on Ullswater was the perfect spot, secluded and at that time in the morning everything felt serene and clouds were still hanging around some of the mountains in the distance.
The blend of hiking and painting - seems a match made in heaven; but till this moment I had not really done any outdoor painting for more years than I dare admit. Wandered down some stone steps to the beach and found my spot. Hooked the dog up to a tree and set up the easel and pallete and began. 'Plein air' and 'alla prima' - how bold of me!
The seclusion wasn't as secluded as I imagined it would be, fortunately no permanent watchers but some passers by stopped, looked and in some cases chatted. How many artists have I seen in my life in the outdoors painting? Almost none, I don't know whether people aspire to it or not but I think people are generally curious and honestly I welcome it. I am getting past the whole does it look good kind of thing - its capturing a moment in time, a feeling and its as much about the enjoyment of creating art and living in that moment.