As we face yet another week of freezing temperatures and a forecast for more snow, it seemed appropriate to share some coastal watercolour paintings to get us in the mood for holiday planning later in the year.

I can’t wait to get back to cruising again although I suspect that I will staying a bit closer to home for the first one. As the vaccination programme starts rolling out, it brings with it some hope. We need to get those smiles and social interactions back as soon as safely possible.

This week I have been deluged with commissions which is great news for me ... lots of lockdown entertainment for me. There are dogs in woolly hats, horses and houses ... so welcome variety. It was a first for me trying to paint a knitted hat where every stitch was on show.

Although initially daunted, it was actually all about a task of accurate observation of detail, light and shadow. I can’t wait to hear how the recipient reacts following the big reveal as it a highly personal surprise commission in memory of a much-loved pet. The joy of commissions continues to be the feedback from happy customers.

What have you been up to creatively? I had no bananas for banana bread, so it was red velvet cupcakes for me. Sadly, all of the cooking is resulting in a few extra pounds on the hips.

I have spent some time looking through some previous paintings, to create some more themed collages to keep everyone’s spirits up. Revisiting previous work is also a good way to showcase the range of subject matter I have tackled. I notice a progression as I have honed my skills.

Being self-taught it has been an interesting journey of discovery, finding what techniques work best for skies, water and reflection in particular. It is quite liberating not being constrained by conventional techniques, as I don’t know what they are.

Have a great week.

Rhona.