GREY SQUIRREL

Grey squirrels are common around here and there is even a black version! I enjoy watching their capering about but they can be a nuisance as I found out when one chewed apart and completely destroyed my attic vent trying to get into the roof! This graphite study on paper, about 5" x 8".

BRACKET FUNGI

I saw this bracket fungi on one of the decaying trees over in the reserve. In the sunlight, it looked interesting so I decided to do a sketchbook study of it. This rather large specimen looked a lot larger the next time I went by and had changed its shape too. Maybe another study later? Watercolor, 12" x 8".

CANADA GOOSE SKETCHBOOK STUDY

Canada Geese hatched this year are growing up now and are in their adult plumage - although not looking anywhere near as smart and clean-cut as their elders. At this stage of their life, they seem a little unsure of themselves but are tamer than their older relatives so make excellent models as I can usually approach them quite closely so long as I sit quietly and don't move about too much. This watercolor study about 5" x 8".

ALLEY IN ANACAPRI

Our visit to Italy a few months ago was incredible - especially for a landscape painter like me. The land is so full of history and subjects for paintings were to be had at every turn! I could have spent a lifetime there painting. We toured all the major cities including Rome and Venice. Heading South was the most wonderful experience where we stayed near the bay of Naples and visited Capri for a few days. Weather was perfect in the South, a bit of rain and clouds in the North. I did some painting and sketching when I got the chance but most work will be completed home here in my studio (once I clear my backlog of unfinished work). This small study in oils is 7" x 5".

LANTAU PEAK FROM NGONG PING

I did this small study of Lantau Peak on a hazy day from Ngong Ping - the site of the great Buddha on Lantau Island, Hong Kong. The idea was to capture the impressive height and majestic feel of the mountain which is a difficult and tiring climb, but with spectacular views from the top. I'm hoping to do a larger painting of this subject when I can but I still have so many other paintings to finish off first! This study done in oil on canvas, 5" x 7".

DOOR IN PORTO

One of the towns we stayed in while touring around Portugal was Porto. Really a nice town especially the area down by the river - so many painting opportunities. I managed a quick study of some old doors seen below the church close to the water. Would have liked to have done more but there was so much to see and we were only there for a few days. Hopefully a longer trip will happen in the future. This study in oils on canvas, 7" X 5".

COASTAL ROCKS - SAGRES, PART 3

Quite a bit of work was needed to finish this one. I darkened the shadowed area of the rocks along with the water - both in the foreground foamy bit and in the sea beyond. I also worked on the distant cliff a little and finished with washes to the landscape above. I largely fudged this area as I didn't want to include the houses. After that was dry, it was a case of slowly going over each section of the painting, touching up here and there and adding a few final details. This watercolor was painted on Arches paper, size is 22" x 15".