White Rose Gallery

Here Comes Trouble in oils....cont.

2011-12-20T16:44:00.003Z

I hadn't realised it was so long since I updated my blog. I've been really busy for the last few months with various projects, but I have been putting work on my FB Art page completely forgetting to update here as well.

This is one I am continually working on while learning at the same time. We are very fortunate at our Art Club Ilford Art Society, where we have an amazing teacher Mark Charalambou, who has been with the societys for over 25 years. Mark trained at St. Martin's School of Art and is a successful professional painter in his own right. Mark gained his Post Graduate Art teacher's Certificate from the Institute of Education at the University of London. He tailors tuition to each individual Member due to our wide range in abilities.He has taught me so much over the past year, especially painting portraits in oils, which is why this painting continues to change.

I've added more and different colours to her chin and lower face. This was to build on her character. Zahrah is so full of energy and trouble in a cute lovable way, and who doesn't stay clean for longer than 5 mins, far from a sweet little miss perfect which she would have looked like had I painted lovely smooth skin. I just need to be careful not to over do this though. It was hard getting a decent photo of this so it is showing a little grainy.

I still need to close the gap between the mouth and nose, i've aged her a bit too much here. The beauty of oils is of course that we can keep changing our work, having said that, it doesn't hold the same joy and unpredictability of painting with watercolours does, not for me anyway.

The likeness gets closer with each painting session, along with my own progress on mixing colours. I have found this so different to working in watercolour and a real learning curve, and one wich i’m really enjoying.

The previous stages, started with a basic outline, then placing in some tones with various skin colours.

Remembering....

2011-11-11T10:24:00.000Z

My Dream.....

2011-10-19T00:56:00.000+01:00

I often have many different paintings on the go at one time, and nowadays in different media as well, as i'm trying out others.....

This is a watercolour I started whilst in Holland staying with my friend Joanna. It got put aside as I was concentrating on her teaching me oils and Acrylics.

This is another of babasteve's wonderful reference photos, and I can't thank him enough for his generosity in sharing. I usually start with a drawing and once i'm happy with that erase almost all the lines so I can barely see it.

Staring of with delicate washes....

A close up of the eyes on the first wash.

Eventually picking this up again some while after I returned, I almost left it at this stage. The ref photo is of an African boy, and I am loving painting anything Africa at the moment. The problem was, although I liked it as it stood, it didn't say Africa to me, so on I went after letting it sit for a week or so....

This is where it is now and i'm calling it finished. I'm happy with it, but wondering if I was happier at the last stage.....Should I have left it?...I suppose it all comes down to personal taste in the end.

My Dream

Charcoal study

2011-10-14T09:19:00.001+01:00

A quick 15 min charcoal study for a painting i'm working on. After many many years, not since school really, I picked up willow charcoal again. I've found it especially useful in art class doing life work.

I normally steer clear of this stuff as I get into such mess, but i'm finding how invaluable it can be. A bit like working with ink, with anything other than a pen, you loose a little control, you can't fiddle. I've found this way I experiment more. Working on this gave me other ideas for the bg as well. You really have a freedom with this stuff.

Special thanks to Babasteve for the use of his photo

Elmo & Suki......

2011-09-06T17:22:00.000+01:00

I've so much to catch up on here after spending a wonderful two weeks with my dear friend Joanna in Holland. I will post more on that later, but though I ought to post what i've been up to in order, if I can remember. So to start with:

These are two commissioned paintings of cats by a gentleman for his mothers birthday. The cats belong to his mother and the paintings were to be a surprise for her birthday, which is the reason I have been unable to share them openly on-line until now. But I've just had word that he has given her the paintings, how much she loved them, and how I had captured their personalities.

Elmo

It's always a worry when painting pets or portraits, not only that you capture the likeness, but also the spirit and personality.

To do this I asked to know a little about them before starting my drawing and paintings. This really does help so much, making painting them much more enjoyable and I believe shows in the end result.

Elmo is quite old and has unfortunately lost most of his teeth, because of this his tongue is out almost all of the time and he dribbles rather badly. I decided to keep the tongue as it was in the photos, after all that his him, it's how his owner sees him daily.....

Suki

This is Suki, she is the sister of Elmo and is about 14 years old. Just looking at the photos I was given of her gave me the impression she rules like the queen of the house.....

Make a Wish....Video...

2011-08-14T23:52:00.003+01:00

Make a Wish

***

It is a long time coming and took quite a long time to edit as well. I didn't realise how hard it would be to video myself. Quite nerve racking at times, but at the same time so enjoyable.

(Special Thanks to babasteve for generously sharing his photos)

I have made this in response to lots of requests from friends wishing to see how I work, especially painting portraits. Special friends that have supported me in my journey, this is for you with my thanks.

Make a Wish Video

I've tried to share some of how I work in this video. Unfortunately because of the way I work there isn't any time to stop and change the angle of the video camera, or zoom in at various times. I also found once played back that I need to work on better lighting. it was quite a dark day, raining most of the time, which didn't help. It has left the painting a bit washed out, but i've shown photos of it at the end of the video which is nearer to the original. the other thing I found difficult was to talk as well, hence the music. Something else to work on for the next one.

*****

I work in various ways depending on mood and subject, this is one of the ways. Although you obviously need to learn techniques, I do believe a lot of it comes from how you feel. You need to feel what you are painting, which is what adds that something extra to it.

I know this not a professional masterpiece, but I do hope you enjoy watching this and that it helps even a little on your journey in watercolours.

*****

I welcome you to join me on my Art Page on Facebook.

Framed Print SOLD on FAA.....

2011-08-06T11:16:00.000+01:00

I'd like to say a big THANK YOU to the person who purchased a framed print of my pigs from my FINE ART AMERICA page.What a fantastic surprise this was....Seems to be a popular week for the pigs.

Pigs in Clover

(Formally Happy Family)

Framed Print

SOLD

*****

Brush with Water...Watercolour Forum

2011-08-06T09:08:00.000+01:00

A small & friendly Free Art Forum specialising in Watercolour,

and sharing all media.

Share you work....Learn from each other....Join the Challenges....

*****

Painting of the Month

*****

Registration required.....All abilities welcome

Come join us

CLICK HERE

Pigs in Clover....SOLD

2011-08-05T03:14:00.000+01:00

A couple of days ago I went to the Dovecote gallery where I sold the painting "Sunday Morning" to collect my unsold paintings. One of them was missing... We checked the paperwork to find which room it had been hanging, still no sign of it. There were lots of people collecting so a bit of chaos going on. resigned to the fact of thinking someone must have walked away with it, one gentleman suddenly said, "I think this was sold" .What a fantastic surprise. I don't know who bought this, but I want to say a big thank you to you, it gives an artist such a boost when they sell something. I had originally titled this Happy Family, but changed it after a suggestion from a friend...

"Pigs in Clover"

SOLD

Special thanks to Jane Minter for the use of her wonderful photo.

*****

Ken Bromleys Cover Competition ....

2011-07-25T13:23:00.004+01:00

I was so thrilled this morning to find I have been short listed for this years

Ken Bromley Cover Competition.

with my painting

"Face of Africa"

This was one of two paintings, one of which sold, that had been selected for the recent SWA Exhibition at the Mall Galleries. I'm still thrilled to have been part of the Exhibition and to have been short listed now for this is fantastic....

***Face of Africa***

Vote Now!
for your 3 favourite paintings

Ken Bromley Art Supplies Cover Competition

It's amazing how inspiring it is, not only to be in amongst such wonderful art, but just to look through the many different styles and levels of other artists who have entered. It always leaves me want to pick up my brushes or maybe something new and having a go....

"Time to reflect"

I entered this competition a few years back with "Time to Reflect" and came 3rd. In fact it was the very first time I had entered anything. I have watched how the standard of entries has got higher each year and this year I think they are even higher. Looking at the entries I'm still amazed I even made it this far, I'm certainly finding it very difficult to choose my 3 favourites.

I would urge anyone, no matter what level or where you are on your journey to enter anything and everything.. As I've found out this year, you never know until you try... and you'll be amazed at how inspirational it is to have even entered....

National Students Art Exhibition at the Mall Galleries

2011-07-15T00:03:00.000+01:00

This morning I went up to the Mall Galleries to collect my unsold panting that had been on show at the SWA Exhibition. While there I took the opportunity to visit the works of the students in the Annual National Students Art Exhibition which is held under the patronage of the Royal Society of British Artists.

NATIONAL STUDENTS’ ART EXHIBITION 2011

Tue 12 - Sat 16 July 2011, 10am to 5pm (closes 1pm on final day)

Looking Up by Hannah Cook (Year 13)

I was blown away at the standard of work on display, we certainly have some wonderful talent on their way up. I stood there mouth opened finding it hard to believe these are all students still at school or college. mazing wrok that left me leaving there so inspired by what I had seen.

Treat yourself if you are in the London Area, the exhibition is free and is on show until Sat 16 July 2011, and you won't be disappointed.

SOLD "Sunday Morning"

2011-07-13T01:09:00.000+01:00

I was thrilled to get a phone call to say that this painting had sold at the Dovecote gallery Summer Exhibition. I hope the new owners get as much pleasure out of it as I did painting it. Thank you....

Since I last shared this painting on my blog it has had a little change to it, just a bit more detail to the newspaper and some touches to the face...Unfortunately I didn't take another photo of it. I also made a change to the title, previously it was "Morning News".....

SOLD.... at the Mall Galleries, London

2011-07-07T09:52:00.000+01:00

...

Wistful

Sold at the Mall Galleries, London

.....

I was absolutely thrilled and stunned to see a red dot on my paintings, one of two that had been selected to be included in the SWA Society of Woman Artists 150th Celebratory Exhibition at the Mall Galleries.

Unfortunately I was unable to attend the opening as I was away on holiday, but a friend had told me on return that it had sold. I went up to see the exhibition on Tues as I also wanted to have the pleasure of watching Ann Blockley demonstrating. A fabulously talented lady who does wonderful things with watercolour and mixed media, and is so inspiring. What a wonderful day it was.

The Exhibition runs until the 9th July..

So if you haven't visited yet you still have time.

It's a wonderful and very inspiring Exhibition,

and i'm so proud to have been part of it.

Happy Family...

2011-05-26T10:54:00.001+01:00

This was one painted last year for my Solo Exhibition at the Kington Gallery in Herefordshire. It was painted after much nagging by my better half as he has a thing about pigs, maybe due to the butcher in him lol. It didn't sell but as he likes it so much it is on my wall now.

Pigs in Clover

Watercolour

With very special thanks to Jane Minter for the use of her wonderful photo.

Jane is a wonderful watercolour artist as well as a friend, please take time to visit her Blog.

Sisters......

2011-05-23T01:20:00.001+01:00

I've had some problems on the progress of the older sister. It is an old black and white photo with little detail in places. The side of her face is in heavy shadow especially the nose, and her eyes are almost shut with squinting through the harsh sunlight. I need to be careful how much detail I do put in this one. I'm going to let her sit for a while, while I think on it....

I've brought in more colours here, including green. I'm treading very gently though with these colours..... I still need to do some more work on the hair and ribbon, but don't want a completed look on both sides of each girls face. Although I will probably put in some darks immediately next to the face and where the hair meets on both girls..... I need to let this all sit for a while now to see how much more it needs and if it's working for me.....

Close view of Jeanette .

Defining the features.......

2011-05-23T01:10:00.000+01:00

I've been asked by friends to share more of how I work so here are some progress photos for you......

I may have lost the likeness on this a little, but am still going to finish it as it's all good practice as they say...and it's surprising how much you learn when you relax with no pressure, and often find it all comes together at the end.....

Have started painting around the eyes. For me this is the most important part of any portrait, they are the soul of the painting as well as the person. If they are wrong then I don't go on with it.

For the eyes i've also used Burnt Umber & Venetian Red. ( Be very careful with Venetian red, it will kill your painting if you use to much of it.)

If you look at the right eye I have placed some BU with a rigger brush.
You need to make this juicy enough so it doesn't dry instantly.

Keeping with the rigger and painting only with clean water I paint the rest of the detail in. As i'm doing this I touch the pigment already on the paper and let it flow in where ever it wants too. Do not try and control it too much.

I carried on with a larger brush doing similar around the nose and mouth...

The area right of the mouth and nose has 3 colours in it. Ven.Red, B.Um, Per.Rose...

I pick these up as I go, no mixing on the palette or on the paper, they are placed almost next to each other and mix where and when they want too, you just have to nudge them occasionally....

.In other words, I change colour as I see or feel it. I often do this by just wiping my brush quickly across the colour in my pallet, which I have already sprayed with water before hand. Picking up different colours as I go.

I've also added a touch more Perm Rose to her cheeks....I've scanned these steps so it shows a bit harsher than it is, it's much softer IRL.

next I went on to put some of the hair in so I can see where i'm going value wise...I don't tend to work in a technical way, more one of feelings and emotion, moving around the painting and adding colour to the next area that grabs my attention

The first wash......

2011-05-23T01:03:00.000+01:00

After a few initial sketches I drew it onto Watercolour paper, trying to have as least pencil work as possible. There was still things I wasn't to sure on but had drawn it so went on with it, if it didn't work it would still help on colour knowledge for the next one.

I often change the way I paint portraits, depending on my subject, how I want the finished piece to work, and even sometimes just the way I feel at the time. I knew I didn't want this one to be quite so loose as I normally work, I also wanted to try and keep that old fashioned look to it, so chose my colours differently....I went with Raw Sienna instead of my preferred choice of Aureolin, Permanent Rose, Colbalt Blue, and Cerulaean Blue

This is just the 1st wash, unfortunately the light had gone and the colours are a little washed out here....

That Special Painting......

2011-05-23T00:58:00.001+01:00

Each piece of work has something that inspires you to paint it in the first place, a meaning, a message, colour, light, something that draws you in. ...but occasional there is one that has that something with more meaning, one that holds something special, one that you just know you just have to paint. As soon as I saw this photo I knew this was one of those.....

Jeanette was the younger sister of someone very close to me, a sister he never really knew, as she was sadly taken from the family so suddenly, and at such a young age. This is an old family photo that his older sister had, a sister that did get to be with Jeanette, but only for a short time, and is the older girl in the photo, on the right.

Capturing the soul of a person is probably the biggest aim when painting a portrait, and doubling this up is quite a challenge, but a pleasurable and meaningful one. And although there is a slight tension to get this right, it's still one of a real passion of capturing this special moment as a gift for special people....

I started as I normally do with various pencil sketches to become familiar with the girls faces. I always have some sort of sketching paper on my board, and will doodle and sketch features or parts of the portraits in every spare 5 mins I have. This really brings me closer to my subjects and while doing this I'm also thinking about the composition. most of the time this does seem to come together on it's own, as if each subject knows how to sit on the paper.

The first sketch is always a quick one, no fussing, and not to much correcting. Step back and look and you will see exactly where you need to change it if any...There are a few things I need to get right before I go on to the painting which is why these initial sketches are invaluable.

Along with obvious things such as proportions that need altering, Jeanette was the youngest and I've drawn her face too large to sit next to her older sister... I also drew this one with her mouth closed, this doesn't work for me. When you see the person often, you see them with different expression in many different poses, but as this is one of very few photographs, especially at his age, the image here is one that is remembered more distinctly than would otherwise be, so needs to be as is, or very close. . .

I decided straight away that I wanted to go with just the head shots. Moving the heads close together so they connect better. I was aiming for the hair to flow together, maybe the ribbons too, this is something I find comes together when painting, where letting the watercolour work along with you, often leading the way.....

Here Comes Trouble.....

2011-05-10T18:30:00.001+01:00

Some you win , Some you lose....

Not a total disaster as there is a lot I like about this one. I really should have paid more attention to the drawing as I've aged her a touch, but I was so eager to paint it. When i took the photo I placed her in the top corner when editing, the composition of it worked so I went with it in the painting as well. I thought to have her hair trailing longer on the viewers left as well and was really pleased with how the colours worked, becoming softer as her curls tumbled down. .

So what was I not happy with?..well, I wasn't too happy with the hair overall. I lost concentration and hey presto mud happened :(. Having said that, I did learn so much from this, and no painting is ever a waste of time, it's just part of the Journey.

I have started another one, totally different colours this time as well. Will take it a step at a time on the hair as well.

Society of Women Artists 150th Celebratory Exhibition 2011......

2011-05-03T15:20:00.001+01:00

Two paintings Selected......

I am absolutely thrilled to have had two of my paintings selected for the Society of Women Artists 150th Celebratory Exhibition 2011, at the Mall Galleries, London.

This is the first time of entering an international exhibition, so to say I am thrilled is an understatement. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the family and friends who have and continued to support and believe in me, without them I wouldn't have gotten this far.

150th CELEBRATORY EXHIBITION

THE MALL GALLERIES

LONDON SW1

1 to 9 July 2011

HRH Princess Michael of Kent is the SWA Patron, and will open the exhibition at the private view to be held on Thursday 30 June. The Exhibition then runs from 1 to 9 July 2011 (closing at 1pm in the last day.
www.society-women-artists.org.uk

The Chigwell School Charity Art Show.......

2011-05-03T02:26:00.002+01:00

The exclusive Chigwell School will be holding a charity Art show from Wed 11th May. A combination of pupils art together with various art works from local Art Clubs, to be hung and displayed in the schools Art Gallery. I was thrilled to be asked if I would like to submit 2 painting to the event.

All commissions on sold work will be donated to the Chigwell Riding Trust, which was the first riding centre for people with special needs in the world. It has been established in Chigwell for forty five years.

The private view and sales evening will take place on

Wednesday 11th May from 6.00pm to 8.30pm.

The exhibition will then open to the public

from

Thursday 12th May to Friday 10th June.

If you would like to view the exhibition, please email Mr Edwin Aitken (eaitken@chigwell-school.org)

to make an appointment.

* * * *

2011-04-14T12:30:00.000+01:00

Another one that started as a sketch...

It was the eye of the horse that really caught my attention so just picked up my brush and started from there with no preliminary drawing, which is why the length of the head isn't quite as it should be I was getting so carried away playing the the water and pigment that I lost concentration on the overall proportions I'm really loving playing with red lately and can't resist dropping some in somewhere in most of my work, looks gorgeous dropped wet into Indigo...

A closer view of the eye area...

I've now drawn this out larger, would be interested in suggestions for naming it

Take a guess....

2011-04-09T12:56:00.000+01:00

Working on a few different paintings at the moment......Animals and portraits..

Just a small part of the latest one..wonder if you can guess what it might be :)....

Lion Country....

2011-04-05T01:13:00.001+01:00

Still hooked on Africa at the moment, amongst other things, must be something to do with the yearning to go back there...

.... After doing an initial sketch of this Lion I went onto a larger version on a half sheet.

wetting some areas then dropping in some colour for an initial wash, then some extra touches of colour in a few areas as the under wash was drying......

I decided not to sketch this one out as I paint too much within the lines when I do...

The problems that arise are when you don't get the 2nd eye in the right place, which is why he hasn't got one at the moment lol. I had to wash it away as it just wasn’t looking right...It will be added later though....

I'm letting this sit for a little while though as I have some ideas for it and need to think on if it will work or not....

2011-03-28T15:29:00.002+01:00

Join me at SoJie 9, Juried Art show...

Morning News.....

2011-03-25T14:58:00.000Z

Morning News

Pure Watercolour

20 x 14in

I'm calling this one done. Have let it sit for a while and made a couple of adjustments, but have to walk away now before I go too far.. I wanted to keep the bright sunlight in this and think I've managed that...

Flower of Dreams....Sold

2011-03-24T10:29:00.000Z

I was so delighted to find my painting Flower of Dreams sold at the recent Essex in Mayfair Exhibition which was opened by professor Ken Howard OBE .

This was one of those paintings that just happened.

Flower of Dreams....SOLD

From a previous post:
"Starting with the centre of one, no pre drawing, just pigment & water, I stopped looking at the flower in my hand and merrily carried on painting....I was in another world for a while and my imagination did the rest. I think they still have a resemblance of Roses, but for me they are more of a flower of dreams"

2011-03-23T00:51:00.002Z

This is about as far as I got..left it to dry as I was unsure I like where it's heading...May have to start again in better light...I rushed the drawing on this for some reason and don't like it as much as the sketch.

I'm looking to keep lots of light on the left hand side.Only showing just the minimum I need to capture the moment, maybe the top of the hand and very corner of the newspaper..

*******

Special thanks to Redfloor on Stock.xchng for the use of this wonderful photo.

Morning News...

2011-03-22T16:55:00.002Z

A quick sketch for a painting. From a photo by Redfloor on Stock.xchng that is the photo of the month on our portrait group blog.

I find if I do a couple of these it gets me familiar to the character before I paint it. That and I love to draw as well.....

I can't stress how valuable it is to draw each day, especially if you want to learn how to paint portraits.

Being familiar with how the face is structured and where the features sit in relation to each other, allows you to concentrate on colour and tone when it comes to the painting...

*******

Special thanks to Redfloor on Stock.xchng for the use of this wonderful photo.

Wild in Samburu...

2011-03-22T16:44:00.000Z

I can't believe it's so long since I posted on here, and we're heading for April already.... I am working on some new paintings at the moment for exhibitions coming up..... including two that will be on show at the Chigwell School Charity Art Show in May.

Wild in Samburu

This was a recent painting, similar to one that was entered in the Mayfair Exhibition.

Selected for Essex in Mayfair Exhibtion.....

2011-03-07T09:02:00.002Z

I have had all 3 of my entries selected for this Exhibtion....

Tonight we have the private view which will be opened by
Professor Ken Howard OBE RA,
a truly great artist. It will be an honour to meet him.

The Exhibition is on for one week, so if you are in the area please come along, you'll not be disappointed by the amazing level of artwork on display.

"Wistful"

Pure Watercolour

by Stephie Butler

On display and for sale at the

Essex in Mayfair Exhibition

New Collection.....

2011-03-01T00:43:00.000Z

Face of Africa....

2011-02-14T18:23:00.000Z

Same colours, different order....

Using the same ref photo as a guide, I approached this painting in a different way to the other.....this time I wanted to see what would happen if I used more or less the same colours, but placed them in a different order....So started off with the Sienna, then followed with blues and reds afterwards, decided to leave out the green this time though.........Interesting how different it looks...

My choice....Definitely the other painting, but I guess it comes down to personal taste in the end....

The African Trail.....

2011-02-08T13:00:00.001Z

Working on the portrait of the little girl, and meeting up with Dave's long lost relatives from Africa this week, have got me wanted to carry on along the African Trail.

Starting the day with a quick 15 min sketch, no pre drawing, and the nearest photo to hand...

Arches 140lb
W/N paints

Wistful......

2011-02-08T00:57:00.000Z

The original photo for this painting was a challenge photo way back in December. A challenge on a small portrait painters blog I am part of, a place where a few friends have got together, friends with a love and desire to capture a persons sole....to learn and help each other along the way...The photo belongs to Babasteve (Steve Evans) on Flickr and is posted under creative commons, for which I know I am among many others in being very grateful to him for sharing his wonderful work. You can see his gallery HERE.

I loved this photo as soon as I saw it, seeing so many different colours in her skin, making me want to grab everything on my palette..... I started off with a quick basic sketch, not worrying about the likeness, as it was the colours and tones I wanted to experiment with, and where I think I need to concentrate my studies more. I only drew the basics as I find this stops me fiddling too much. It frees you up to be more creative, with no lines to contain and hold you in.. Providing your features are in the right place, your portrait will work, even though it may no be an exact likeness...

There was already a touch of blue & red on my palette so I went with it, and after all we all know they are my favourite colours :). Although I could see a lot of Burnt Sienna in her face I wanted to experiment so went with Cad Red instead. Sometimes you need to go with your instinct otherwise you never learn. By experimenting and not being a slave to the photo this also allows your work to be different, to be your own style...

I could have almost left it at this stage, and there was lots I liked about it and wish I'd kept. But I needed to change my palette, move away from the colours I too often use..It was time to be brave...

I added some Burnt Sienna especially to the left shadow side of the face....I wasn't too sure of the Cer. Blue so added some green over it. I rarely use green from the palette, I almost always mix greens, but picked it up without thinking....but I think the jade colour it created worked better with the burnt Sienna on the painting...

I recently bought some Daler Rowney B.Sienna and I am finding it much redder than the Windsor & Newton, which for this painting I was really getting to like.

I decided to take this further... It certainly needed work in some areas. It's too easy to leave paintings sometimes because you have a lovely wash or effect, you need to have form as well, and it was missing this in some areas, especially around the eyes. I like points from both the last 2 stages and have learned a lot from each.

A closer view of the face. For some reason the photo seems to loose colour when uploaded on to the blog, It's a touch more colourful and brighter I think that it show here. This has been a real joy to paint and I have since done another version of this and have another ready to paint. I did something here I almost never do, and that is to paint the same photo again, but i'm learning so much more by doing this....

Sloppy Chops...

2011-02-05T01:02:00.001Z

It's the only title I can think of at the moment, but I will think on a better one....

This was done as a very impromptu sketch one evening. The photo was sitting on my board and I had picked up the brush lying on my table, to put it away when I thought ....I'll just paint a little...... No pre drawing on this one, and I do realise I am a little out on proportion, although not enough to worry about I don't think.

I went onto paint another version on this "Yes My Lord" with two dogs, as in the original photo, which I give thanks to Canis Lupess of Wetcanvas for the use of her photo. The later one was originally shown at my solo exhibition, and is now with the Mayor of Redbridge for an upcoming charity auction. I'll update with further details later on that.

If you are interested in purchasing any of my work, please email me for further details.

Reflecting on progress....

2011-01-25T18:14:00.000Z

While clearing my studio, I was looking back at my work over the past year to see how, or even if I had progressed.. I think overall I definitely have, and am pleased with what I am painting lately. I do find very often though you go backwards to go forwards, especially when venturing onto a new subject or technique.

For me this has been with portraits. I just love painting them and have spent lots of time practising drawing, studying books and other artists paintings. I wanted to progress with colour more, and this is where I think I have progressed the most, along with being able to draw the structure of them much better.

Here are 2 portraits I did of Zahrah. One at the beginning of the year and the other more recently...When I painted the earlier one I was over the moon with it. If I had painted this in the last month or so, I would be somewhat disappointed, that for me feels like progress..... I can't say I have done this in all subjects though, but for portraits i'm very pleased with my progress....

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2010-12-25T00:48:00.000Z

Wishing all my friends a very

* * * Merry Christmas * * *

and a

* * * Happy New Year * * *

Little Miss Innocent......

2010-12-17T17:57:00.004Z

Little Miss Innocent

Pure Watercolour

Arches 140lb

Approx
20x 14in

I loved this photo I took of my little granddaughter Zahrah. She has a permanent look of "Butter wouldn't melt" on her face, but like so many at her age, she is an absolute little darling, with a little devilish spirit. She usually checks to see if you are watching her before attempting to touch something she shouldn't, which was when I captured her with my camera. Such a sweet innocence.

This was started a while ago but have only just had the chance to finish it, and was also the same photo I used for the demonstration I gave at my recent solo exhibition in the Kington Gallery.

I have really fallen in love with painting portraits, but find I now feel that need to express more in my work, something I believe all artists go through and something I don't believe can be taught, although can be inspired. I believe as artists we have to find our own way there through painting and experimenting. I wanted to play with colour, the colour I see in subjects that isn't always evident in that first glance, or is it perhaps just a case of getting braver, as we all err on the side of caution when we first start out. I find that as i'm progressing i'm instinctively pick up the colours and placing them very quickly, and could almost say without too much thought, or perhaps again it's just that I have more experience now. For me this usually ends up with a more saftisfying painting.

It seems so difficult at this time of year with the bad light, getting my work photographed properly. It has a touch more colour in the face, but as often found with transparent watercolours, it's sometimes hard to capture that other than to see it in real life. You can click on the picture to see it larger where I find it looks better than the smaller version.

Louis....

2010-12-05T16:08:00.001Z

Louis

Pure Watercolour
Arches 140lb
W/N Paints

Original…Available

This was a new painting done for my recent Solo Exhibition..

*****

I’ve been eager to paint some jazzy stuff for a long while, but it’s so hard to get free reference photos…and was inspired again after being fortunate to have recently gone to a workshop with Trevor Waugh. He is an amazingly talented artist, a wonderful person, and one of the best teachers I have come across.

My friend and I stayed for coffee and a chat one evening, and were fortunate to see his new collection, and wow were they stunning. They were all based on the theme of Jazz, and we sat there in awe of them and his talent. All his work is painted without the use of a preliminary sketch which he teaches and encourages in his workshops. But don't be put off by that, it's a lot easier than it sounds... If you ever get the chance to take a workshop, or go to one of his exhibitions, I urge you, don't miss out, I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

I thoroughly enjoyed painting this and am now working on some new ideas…We as artists all see where we could either change or express more in our work, and this has given me so many new ideas and eagerness to experiment on more work.

I also decided to stay away from my usual choice of white frame son this one too, it jsut didn't do anything for it. I mounted it in a double black & white mount, then chose a natural wood frame as I did with the honesty paintings. This is a photo of it on display at the Exhibition.

I had a terrible job getting a decent photograph of this one, so resorted to scanning it. The colours are almost right, but it does show a touch more grainy here than it does in real life.

NEW.....Wild at Heart Calendar 2011........Now available

2010-12-03T14:07:00.004Z

I have finally got round to making a Calendar of my Wildlife Photos. It can be purchased via Redbubble. .

Wild at Heart

2011 Calendar

Featuring a collection of

Wildlife photographs

by Stephie Butler

A wonderful collection of Fine Art Photographs that can be mounted and framed when you've finished with the calendar. And at a fraction of the price of a normal prints.

RedBubble calendars

are printed using marvellous futuristic technologies, printed on a luscious 200gsm satin art paper.

At the striking size of A3

(297x420mm, or 11.69x16.54").

They also have very handy wire binding so you can hang them.

You can select your own start month, and order right into the future. Everything about them is brilliant, except you'll have no excuse for missing your sister's birthday anymore.

***Customised Calendars***

Would you like a Calendar made of your favourites of any of my Paintings or Photographs, then just drop me a line, tell me which ones you would like included, and i'll put it together for you.....and all at no extra cost too.

I can also offer a personally designed front page just for you. There will be a small charge for this depending how much work involved, and would be payable to me separately through Paypal.

Fire & Ice.... Voted favourite painting and SOLD

2010-11-30T16:49:00.001Z

Last week I went along to our Art Society in Ilford for the AGM and Xmas celebrations. The last but one meeting this year.

We were asked to take a painting along, where they would be displayed so all members could vote for their favourite..I was so surprised and thrilled when Fire & Ice was voted in 1st place, and recieved a very welcome gift voucher for the local art shop. Thank you to all the members for this....

I then got an even bigger surprise from a gentlemen who had fallen in love with it and wanted to buy it....There is nothing more rewarding than to sell a painting no matter the price. the fact that someone admires your work so much that they want to hang it on the wall of their home is a feeling I can't describe.

This was one of the 3 new mask paintings I did for the my recent Exhibition and had become my favourite. I hadn't had the pleasure of hanging it on my wall yet and was sorry to see it go so quick, but seeing this gentleman's face when when I agreed to sell it some how made up for this. I knew it was going to home where it could be enjoyed and appreciated..

Honesty....

2010-11-29T15:46:00.000Z

I've always admired the work of Ann Blockley and was particularly inspired by her painting of Honesty. I've never got round to growing them and couldn't get hold of any inspiring photos.

Thanks to my friend Joanna who remembered this and bought some with her when she came to visit last. They are very delicate but had survived the journey from Holland, safely tucked away in a tub.

We had so much fun painting these, and being able to paint them from life was fantastic.

We both did a few paintings, trying out different colours and arrangements...

Watercolour is wonderful for this type of subject. Partly left to it's own devices, the water & pigment produced some interesting and wonderful effects making these a real joy to paint.

I wasn't too sure of this one when I finished it, but after letting it sit for a while I decided to mount and frame it.

I chose a natural wood frame rather than my usual preferred choice of white. It really made such a difference to the finished look and set the painting of well..

It's now one of my favourites and was included in my recent exhibition....

Kington Gallery....The Exhibtion

2010-11-29T13:18:00.000Z

Finally getting a moment to catch up here and let you all know how the Exhibition went. Well where do I start...It was an amazing time, a fantastic opportunity and a wonderful experience.

For any artist to have a Solo Exhibition is always a great opportunity and an honour. That anyone would want fill a whole gallery with my work was something I never imagined would happen, and meant so much. I have a special lady to thank for that. Janet Thomas, the owner of the Kington Gallery

, a wonderful artist and a true friend, and someone i will always be grateful too.

*****

The Kington Gallery

4 Church Street, Kington,

Herefordshire

HR5 3AZ

Phone 01544 231581 Email kington-gallery@homecall.co.uk

*****


Click here to see Ruth's work

We spent all day arranging paintings, and re-arranging them :)...Ruth Harris, another wonderful artist and friend came along to support and help us, we wouldn't have got it all done without her...Huge thanks to you Ruth.

We had a fabulous 2 weeks with sales of both paintings and cards.

To finish of the Exhibition I gave a demo of how to paint Portraits in Watercolour in a looser style, and what a wonderful day it was... I've always wanted to teach, to be able to share with other artists what i've learned so far, so there was nothing more rewarding than seeing other artists so inspired by the demo, they were eager to pick up a brush and have a go themsleves.

Janet kindly set up some tables with everything needed for them, what a fantastic idea and we had so much fun.. It all worked so well, as this enabled them to retain more of what they had learned as they are immediately trying it for yourself, so can ask questions while I was at hand.....almost a workshop as well..

I received such wonderful feedback from this demo on my teaching, which was so invaluable to me, as you always wonder if your going in the right direction. This too was another great opportunity for me and I'd like to thank everyone who attended.

Fire & Ice.....

2010-11-16T17:31:00.002Z

Last in the new Mask Collection and my favourite...There was just something about this one, I loved the look on their faces... You can really go into another world when painting these masks, have fun with them painting in a way you that wouldn't work so well on a portrait..and of course making them look quite mysterious..

*****

On display at my

Solo Exhibtion

and for sale

at the

Kington Gallery

4 Church Street,

Kington,

Herefordshire,

HR5 3AZ

Phone 01544 231581

email kington-gallery@homecall.co.uk

*****

Peiroette......

2010-11-16T16:01:00.001Z

Another of the new Masks to add to the collection, and on sale at the Kington gallery as part of my exhibition.

I painted this while Joanna was here visiting, which was just as well as she made me stop, otherwise I think it may have been overworked...Again using the wax candle as resist. i enjoyed trying this technique, but don't think it's something I would use very often..

Many thanks again to the generosity of Thomas Warm who very kindly gave me his permission to use them as references.

Mystique....

2010-11-16T09:47:00.001Z

I've always loved Venetian masks and they are such a joy to paint, you are really able to let your imagination go with colour and texture while painting these. I have built up a collection over the last few years and was inspired to add to this after seeing the wonderful photos of Thomas Warm who very kindly gave me his permission to use them as references.Also being inspired by Hazel Soan's new DVD on textures, I decided to incorporate some wax to help create the lace.

SOLD on the opening reception of my

Solo Exhibition at the Kington Gallery in Herefordshire.

Trevor Waugh Workshop.....

2010-11-14T16:47:00.031Z

"Flowers in Watercolour"

...with Trevor Waugh

Back in October my friend Joanna from Holland came to stay and we had lots of time and fun painting together. Whilst Joanna was here we were fortunate to be able to attend a workshop "Flowers in Watercolour" with Trevor Waugh.

I've only been to a few workshops including 2 previous ones with Trevor, one in watercolour, the other in oil, and I have to say they are the best. With a max of 6 students you really do feel like you are getting one on one tuition from a truly talented artist, who genuinely enjoys passing on as much as he can to help you further your journey.

*******

Trevor demonstrating one of the many paintings.

Trevor starts with an informal chat, where he gets to know you, not only as an individual, but also your capabilities and at what stage you are. This enables him to work with you throughout the course on your own individual level.

Next he demonstrates the first painting, while we all watch in awe of his talent and the ease in which he quickly produces a masterpiece. Of course we find out it's not quite as easy as it looks, but with practice and the way in which Trevor teaches, your well on your way and the rest is then up to you.

Trevor with another painting,
where he demonstrated his way of painting Roses.

You can bring your own photos to work on, although Trevor is always more than happy to let you choose from his vast collection. Although each student works on a different photo and often different subject, Trevor somehow watches everyone individually, quickly stepping in to help and encourage you when needed, constantly giving small snippets and demo's throughout the course to help you to the next stage, as well as happily repeating anything you didn't quite master the first time round. This I found most valuable, and would stop what I was working on at any given time to absorb all that Trevor was sharing with any student.

********

Trevor and Darlas

Apart from the Expert tuition, you really do feel like you are part of the family, with Trevor's partner, accomplished Artist & Teacher in her own right, Darlas Hunter, who also makes you feel so at home and relaxed, along with cooking superb lunches....

********

This really is a true experience and one not to be missed if you get the chance, so much more than just a workshop.You are left feeling so inspired, along with coming away with a mind full of knowledge to practice with.

If you get a chance, take a look at Trevor's Journals and sketchbooks, they really are something else...What a talent this artist has....

Trevor Waugh's Website

Darlas Hunter's Website

Solo Exhibition.....

2010-10-29T16:42:00.001+01:00

I'm thrilled to announce the upcoming of my first Solo Exhibtion, at The Kington Gallery...

Happy Birthday Nannie's Little Treasure....

2010-10-09T07:51:00.000+01:00

Nannies' little treasure is 3 today.....

Wow how time flies, they grow way too fast....

This was one of the 1st portraits I painted....I aged Isi quite a bit at the time, he's almost looking that age now, although he has slimmed down in the face . I named this "In years to come".....I wasn't too far off :)

"In years to come"
Original Watercolour

The Little Horror.....

2010-10-08T22:22:00.000+01:00

Now this little horror also goes by the name of Kirsty amongst others.....She is a special little girl with bags full of character and controlls a special friend of mine, Cathy...

Cathy will tell you all sorts of stories about this little devil, but I can asure you none of which is true.....She is the sweetest little darling you could ever meet, just a little playful at times and a real bundle of fun...

I painted this especially for Cathy...who is a special lady, always out there being cheerful, making us all laugh while in herself has been quite ill of late. It was painted from a photo I took no more than 10 mins after Cathy had spent ages giving her a thorough brush and groom, complete with new hairstyle.....as you can see the hair didn't last long :)

Get well soon Cathy, sending you lots of hugs....

ESSEX ART CLUB Autumn Exhibtion

2010-10-08T21:47:00.001+01:00

I have four framed paintings and various mounted original watercolours entered into the

ESSEX ART CLUB

Autumn Exhibition

Saturday 9th Oct
10am - 5pm

Sunday 10th Oct
10am - 4.30pm

Wanstead House Hall

21 The Green,

London E11 2NT

Little Princess in Colour....

2010-09-25T09:31:00.002+01:00

I am lucky to have three venues showing my work on the Wanstead Art Trail. Having a portrait in Wanstead House as part of the Portrait club I attend there on Friday evenings, three paintings in The George Public House, and six in a wonderful little high street shop, called the Art Shop.

The Art Shop..

117c High Street Wanstead
London
E11 2RL

020 89890154

After initially being 1 maybe 2 paintings to go up in the shop I took along a selection for them to choose from. They really liked my work and took 6 to display. I was so thrilled with this and would like to say a heartfelt thank you to them. Its through people like this and all the others who have been generous enough to display art that our work gets seen, hopefully helping bring people back to using local shops as well.

Along with Art Supplies and framing, this treasure of a shop sells the most beautiful gifts, furniture and accessories, mostly in a Shabby Chic style which I love.

They had asked if I could paint a heading to go along side my work on the display. I wanted to show a portrait as I know take commissions and decided to use the photo of my granddaughter Zahrah. It was very quickly done as time was short, so about 30 mins for the portrait. I had painted the lettering when my little devil cat Taz decided he would help. He leapt at my brush sending it and the paint across the painting. I quickly has to wash out the colour as much as I can, then strengthen all the lettering so it would show better..Not ideal but it did the job :D

J. M. W. Turner and Wanstead

2010-09-25T08:33:00.000+01:00

J. M. W. Turner and Wanstead

As a very young man, apprenticed to Thomas Hardwick, architect of St Mary’s Church, Turner made a modest pencil sketch of the grand new church in Wanstead, St Mary the Virgin on Overton Drive.

The artist was born in 1775 into a humble background, as the son of a barber. Recognising his son’s great talent, Turner senior displayed his boy’s paintings in the family barber shop in Covent Garden. We have been fortunate enough to have obtained three copies of this sketch of the church on licence from the Tate Gallery for the duration of the Art Trail. One print will be displayed in our own barber’s shop Zoology Men as well as at the Wanstead Golf Club and the Temple in Wanstead Park.

Following the Turner example of displaying work in shops, a large body of work by Wanstead artists and residents will be displayed in our High Street shop windows and other community venues throughout the Trail.

‘Let’s Get Together’ walks Let us show you the Trail. Walking in the footsteps of a very famous artist, we will explore places of interest.

Dates: Sunday 19th September 2pm. Saturday 25th September 2pm. Sunday 26th September 2pm. Meeting point:
Outside The Corner House,
2 Grove Park,
Wanstead High Street
Leader: John Goodman
Duration of walk: Approximately 2 hrs
The walk will finish at the Temple in Wanstead Park.

On the way we will find the Church of St Mary the Virgin. J.M.W. Turner sketched this church in 1789-90. Silent auction To raise funds for future projects with the Wanstead Society, Robert Mason, an internationally recognised artist, has donated a small figurative painting to be auctioned. Robert Mason has exhibited widely in this country and abroad. His work is in many public and corporate collections, including the British Museum, V&A and the Metropolitan Museum of Art New York. His expressive drawings, paintings and works on paper combine traditional materials with more experimental techniques to create a sense of depth and movement and emotional connection with the viewer. See it in Wanstead Library throughout September. To bid for the painting, email art@wansteadsociety.org.uk (minimum £150).

Schools Local schools have produced a wonderful selection of work around the theme of school and neighbourhood. This can be seen in the library throughout September.

Sponsors Wanstead Society: www.wansteadsociety.org.uk

London Borough of Redbridge Area 1

Adult Education: www.redbridge-iae.ac.uk

This article was taken from the official Wanstead Art Trail map

My little Princess.......

2010-09-24T13:45:00.001+01:00

This was a pencil sketch done a little while ago, of Nannie's little princess, my granddaughter Zahrah...

Flower of Dreams......

2010-09-23T18:00:00.002+01:00

As the Roses in the garden are coming to an end, I picked a couple before the rain soaked the petals, as one was already beginning to fall...

Starting with the centre of one, no pre drawing, just pigment & water, I stopped looking at the flower in my hand and merrily carried on painting....I was in another world for a while and my imagination did the rest. I think they still have a resemblance of Roses, but for me they are more of a flower of dreams

Time to Reflect.....SOLD.....

2010-09-19T00:28:00.001+01:00

Lord Mayor & Lady Mayoress buys "Time to Reflect"

I attended the Bert Hamilton Awards at the Dovecote gallery at the end of the exhibition, where I was shortlisted into the last ten with my painting "Time to Reflect". After the awards were presented to joint winners this year, of a wonderful oil scene of the Gallery and a Magnificent Marquetry of a sweet shop, I was approached by a gentleman and informed that someone would like to meet me. It was the Lord Mayor & Lady Mayoress of Redbridge, they told me how much they loved my work and especially that painting, which they would like to buy. I was so thrilled I was almost in tears. This really meant so much, as I only started exhibiting this year. The feeling that someone likes your work so much they would want to hang it in their home is indescribable. Although it was a little sad to see it go as it had special memories for me, I knew it was going to someone who appreciated it so much.

I painted this while sitting in the Tuscan mountains with two wonderful friends Joanna & Cathy. It was also a kind of turning point for me as it was with this painting that I entered my first competition, The Ken Bromley Cover Competition, where I became 2nd runner up.

Thank you so much, I hope it gives you as much pleasure as it has me.....

* * * * *

The two winners and short-listed artists.

KINGTON GETS A GALLERY....with a difference!

2010-08-27T20:03:00.000+01:00

Tomorrow marks the day of the opening of the

Kington Gallery.

This is a Gallery with a difference, and truly unique.....Designed and owned by a very remarkable lady & artist Janet Thomas. Janet brings something totally new to Herefordshire and beyond.

*****

A Gallery for artists, by an artist......

Many hours and lots of hard work have been spent by Janet, transforming what was once a run down restaurant, that had been left empty for many years, into a truly remarkable and unique Gallery.

*****

'The Gallery' .....will be a place where artists can not only view & purchase original works of art & fine art cards from the regualry changing exhibitions, but will also be able to join in and try, the many classes, demonstrations and talks, as well as browsing the library of well stocked books to read and or discuss, in a relaxing atmosphere over a cup of tea. .

'The Gallery Club'.....will be open on Friday afternoons with opportunities for members to try out still life's, portraits and figure work amongst other subjects. - Volunteer models are both welcome & needed, you never know, you may get your portrait painted by a professional.

*****

Kington Gallery's 1st Exhibition

Ruth Harris....

The Gallery, with an emphasis on local artists, will open it's doors with an exhibition by one of Herefordshire's talented watercolour artists, Ruth Harris. Ruth who is well known for her colourful floral's which are already in collections worldwide, will also be exhibiting her latest paintings of racing scenes.

Janet Thomas....

........Joining Ruth.....Janet's own beautiful watercolours & pastels will be on display. Janet's who specialises in children's portraits and regularly takes commissions, has developed a very unique and unusual style for watercolours over recent years. Along with her watercolours, she has ventured into pastels and is now a member of the Pastel Guild of Europe.

This Exhibition will continue to run throughout H.Arts week in September.

You will be sure to receive a warm welcome, so please come along and explore

The Kington Gallery

4 Church Street, Kington, Herefordshire, HR5 3AZ

Open 2.00 - 6.00 pm Friday - Monday inclusive or when artist is in residence.

At other times by arrangement with Janet Thomas

Phone 01544 231581 Email kington-gallery@homecall.co.uk

www.KingtonGallery.com

Exhibition in the Dovecote Gallery........

2010-08-13T22:42:00.000+01:00

Redbridge Arts Council-Summer Exhibition

***

Dovecote Gallery

Valentines Mansion & Gardens
Ilford, Essex.

15th-29th August
Open from 11am-4pm
Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Sundays

***

“Time to Reflect”
Original Watercolour by Stephie Butler

As a member of The Ilford Art Society I will be exhibiting 5 paintings at the Dovecote gallery.

The gallery is in the grounds of the Valentines park, mansion & gardens. A lovely day out for all the family.

The house was built in around 1696 for Elizabeth Tillotson and her family, after the death of her husband, the Archbishop of Canterbury and has since changed hands many times. The Council acquired the house in 1912. Since then it has been home to wartime refugees, a hospital, a public health centre, and a council housing department. After sitting empty for around 15 years the house and gardens have been restored with Redbridge council and Heritage Lottery funds .

***

A wonderful day out for all the family.

Visit the Gallery, Mansion & Gardens and the new Gardener’s Cottage Café.

Please visit the website for more information:

Valentines Mansion & Gardens

Emerson Road, Ilford, Essex, IG1 4XA
E-mail: valentines@redbridge.gov.uk
Bookings and general enquiries: 020 8708 8100

***

Raggedy Rosie...

2010-07-28T18:44:00.000+01:00

On the Easel......

An artist need never be short of inspiration. You only have to look round your home..There is always something to paint.

Today I wanted to paint something different ..I have a Teddy started already, but Rosie captured my eye as I walked through the room...She has a lovely bright pretty dress and orangey blonde hair, just right for painting on a bright sunny day...

Rosie is a Rag Doll that Dave bought me in Ireland. I sat her on the garden bench to capture the sunlight. Fortunately i took some photos to work from as the sun went in...

A Quiet Moment.......

2010-07-27T14:19:00.000+01:00

A Quiet moment alone...

After initially only using Safina's face to for my two previous works, I thought I would paint the photo as is. There are a few things I would change about this on, but on the whole am pleased with it. It's amazing how you can be inspired by one photo, taking it further, creating a different piece each time. A lot of thanks go to my teacher Lisa Ivory for unlocking my creativity again. I still have more idea for this one..

Nature Lover.....

2010-07-25T09:27:00.001+01:00

Melissa is a very special friend of mine and one of the kindest people I have come to know, along with being a talented artist, dog trainer and writer. She has a such a love for all nature that surrounds her and spends most of her time amongst it, along with a passion for animals like no one else I know. Her dogs are a very big part of her life, of which she spends her working life training others.

Please take some time to look at Melissa's websites below, and share in her passion and love of all nature.

Musings & Doodles

Gallery

Nose down, tail up

Melissa's daughter Arielle took this photo down at the Hudson River while Melissa was painting the river view, you can see the squint her eye from the strong sunlight. I painted this without Melissa knowing and am so glad she has allowed me to share it with you. I hope I captured even a small part of the beautiful person I have the privilege to call my friend.

Thank you Melissa for being there......

Deep in thought.....

2010-07-23T12:37:00.000+01:00

I just loved the photo that my daughter in law took of my granddaughter Safina. It was a black & white photo, so I was not drawn to copying any colours. I find this lets your imagination think for itself and provides a much better scope for further creative ideas.

I used the same photo for an ink drawing, shown below for my college course. I loved how her hair hung down to one side while she was deep into reading her book sitting on the beach. When doing the ink drawing, I focused on the hair and wanted to carry on with that idea, this time I painted it in watercolour.

I didn't want to paint the hair black as it is, but instead be more creative with colour. I'm working on another one at the moment where this time i'll work wetter, dropping stronger pigment in the water, much like I did in my painting "Lets Party". Maybe combined with ink......This was done while on holiday in Ireland, which was difficult with so many of us in the house, trapped by the rain :(

Passed with Distinction.....

2010-07-23T10:25:00.000+01:00

I opened the post after returning from holiday to find my certificate. My Teacher had rung me a while ago to inform me that I had passed with Distinction. I was so thrilled, but it seems more real somehow to see it in print.

Thank you to all those who supported and encouraged me through this. It was one of the most enjoyable classes I have taken, and certainly one of the most inspiring teachers.

She had a way of teaching that gets your creative mind going, without actually showing you step by steps, making you think for yourself, I have so many ides in my head now and can't wait to get started on them....

Working with Ink....

2010-06-25T16:50:00.004+01:00

Ink Sketch of Safi....

It's been a mad few days trying to get my college folder handed in and finally did it today with a few minutes to spare. I've really struggled the past couple of weeks, having torn the lateral ligament at the side of my knee, even sitting is painful, so very little painting done amongst other things.

The course was Watercolour & Inks with lots of other things thrown in, extremely inspiring, and what a wonderful teacher. It's been a real eye opener to how creative one can be, and the possibilities are endless.

This was just a small sketch i did after one of the classes, trying out different techniques with ink, using pen, straw and my finger.. Muddied the face a little, and the drawing needs attention, but it's been a useful sketch to carry forward to other ideas. Doing sketches are so important, it's brings out so many other creative ideas, especially as you are less worried about using that great big new sheet of expensive paper, often before you are ready too...

My daughter in law took this photo of Safi sitting on the beach reading. I've only used the face as I was drawn to the concentration on her face along with the way her hair hung down. One of the ideas is calling for some long beautiful colours dripping down the paper. Similar to those I did in my painting of "It's Party Time" and maybe some water added in as well to see what happens, who knows what else besides...

My Mum & Me....

2010-06-19T13:48:00.004+01:00

I recently bought a small tin of Derwent Drawing pencils, having been inspired by the work of the very talented chairman of our Art Club, Ron Clarke. I tried these out on a quick sketch of a ref photo I took at PWP.

The pencils are very soft almost like a pastel pencil, great to shade with. This was drawn on black pastel paper with white Drawing Pencil, just picking out the highlights I'd captured on the fur. I'll certainly be using these more...

Derwent Drawing Pencils....

Contentment......SOLD

2010-06-18T16:16:00.000+01:00

I was absolutely over the moon when this painting sold on the private preview night of my 1st exhibition. It was something to even get selected, but to have sold as well.....A night I shall never forget...

The painting was done with no pre-drawing, and just 3 colours. From my own reference from the Paradise Wildlife Park.

Selected for Exhibition..

2010-06-14T02:56:00.004+01:00

Essex in Mayfair

Two Paintings Selected.....

I am so delighted to have had 2 paintings selected by the Essex Art Club for the Essex in Mayfair Exhibition.

After much encouragement and persuasion from some wonderful friends I finally entered my first Exhibition. The standard is very high and I didn't for one minute think I would get in. So to have 2 out of the maximum 3 selected, and it to be my first time is even more special, I am so lost for words. Along with this I have also had 6 browser mounted works selected.

I will be attended the private preview tonight, Monday 14th, and the Exhibition will run for 1 week until the 20th June. It would be fantastic to see anyone there if you are in the area. There will be a wide selection of work and media by some amazing artists, so you won't be disappointed.

I want to say a special thanks to all those friends who have been there, continually encouraging and made me believe in myself, especially over the past year. Pat & Chris Southcombe who have made this a special year for me, Joanna, Cathy, Melissa and Cindi to name but a few...and a special thanks to my partner Dave who has stood by me through so much...

Pastel Portrait....

2010-05-11T22:52:00.004+01:00

I finally got as far as I can go with this....I did try to add more on the face but the tooth of the paper is full so any more just falls off.....another learning curve..

I also tamed down the wild colours a touch as I got to know how they would look on the paper, although i'm not sorry I did this initially as I probably wouldn't have been so adventurous as to put the colours in the hair that I did. It also helps to see how this can not only work in pastel but in other mediums as well.

This was really enjoyable and i'll definitely be trying another one.

2010-04-25T13:27:00.002+01:00

A few weeks ago I joined a couple of local art Clubs and their life classes. The thought at first terrified me, but there always has to be a 1st so off I went. For the first lesson I sat right at the back a feeling a little embarrassed, but It was so exciting and so different from working from photos. I won't say it was easy but cartainly more enjoyable, and can't wait to get back each week now.

After getting the pastels out to paint Les, I thought I'd give them a go at life class...and go a bit wild with colour.

..I really need to become more familiar with the colours and how they look on paper....but I was happy I caught the likeness of her....Still need to finish this off next week...She sits for 3 weeks in all, so have plenty of time.

Painting a Portrait from a single reference .......

2010-04-25T13:10:00.005+01:00

In an effort to jump start their painting and for group encouragement, two wonderful artists have formed a group on FaceBook

"Painting a Portrait from a single reference"

A portrait photo is put up and we all paint it in whatever medium we wish.

My first attempt was a quick sketch in watercolour.

Thanks to Bev for supplying the photo of her hubby, it was a pleasure to paint. ...

For my 2nd attempt......

I decided to try my hand at pastels again . Not quite finished yet, but the work I've been doing on portraits over the past few months sure helped me.

This is only my 3rd attempt at using pastels, so I'm really pleased with the result.....

Dubai workshop - Painting Portraits in Watercolour

2010-04-08T19:37:00.010+01:00

"When I grow up, I want to be......."

Recently I held my first workshop in Dubai. Yes I did say first! No one can hold workshops without having a first one, although I do teach on a one-to-one basis.

I was very fortunate to be visiting two wonderful friends in the UAE, Chris and Pat Southcombe. Chris is a professional artist and Pat a retired Art Gallery Manager. They organised and arranged everything for the workshop, so I knew everything that needed to be done, would be done professionally, and all I was left to do was teach.

Although I know there is still so much out there for me to learn, I am at the stage where I am comfortable with my art to teach others, although initially the idea of doing this to a class full of students was a little daunting. I thought on the years of being a retail manager and holding meetings, along with a few, but very valuable words from Chris, which I will always remember and suddenly put me at ease.."Just be yourself"

I visited the art centre the day before to get a feel of the space that had been given to me, and to organise the room. My main thoughts were that of the students. That they enjoy the day, be inspired when they leave, and have learnt something new to take away with them to experiment with, so they too can move forward with their art. I thought long and hard on this and recalled the few workshops I had been to, what worked, what didn't. I was fortunate to have recently been to a workshop by Trevor Waugh, and learned a lot from his way of teaching. I wanted to achieve that balance of showing them how to, by doing demos, along with time to work on a one-to-one with each student continuously as they set off to try what they had learnt, stepping in with the next demo when needed. This turned out to be very successful.

The morning of the workshop saw us up at 5am and on the road to Dubai by 6am. This meant we avoided any traffic delays from Sharjah to Dubai. We arrived at 7am, 2 hours before the workshop started, making sure we were well prepared for anything the students may have forgotten. Extra paper, water pots, paints, brushes, rubbers, everything in fact that one needs at a workshop.

Students arrived on time and set up their equipment eagerly awaiting to start. We started the day by working on preparing their drawings for the portraits. I then did a small demonstration on painting daises loosely, explaining what I was doing and why. The students then spent 15 minutes just loosening up. There was a lot of laughter as most of them hadn't painted my way before. This helped to relax everyone before starting on their large white clean sheet of paper.

I had decided it would be easier for everyone if we all painted the same image. I had pre drawn and we produced large images of the photograph for those who were not confident in drawing, to be able to trace it. Unfortunately we had not time for portrait drawing lessons, and the aim of the workshop was to paint a portrait in watercolour.

Everyone gathered around my table and I started a demo of a portrait from one of my own photos of my grandson Isi. My first demo was to paint the portrait starting with an overall wash of colours. I worked so far then they all went off to have a go. This was followed by demos on how to paint the features. I then showed them an alternative way by starting with the eye and painting out from there. This was very well received.

The end of the day came round far to quickly. I was so pleased that the students had a finished portrait to take away with them, and some even went onto a 2nd one. The enthusiasm was wonderful to see and be part of. I had produced a step by step guide for painting eyes, a colour chart for skin tones and a colour properties guide for them to take away with them.

Everyone had a wonderful time and I know I certainly did. I have received nothing but positive comments from all the students, along with being asked when I will be returning to do another workshop.

* * * * *
I owe a very special thanks to two wonderful friends, Chris and Pat Southcombe. They played a very large part in making this happen and the whole day very successful, fun and professional. This I shall always remember and be forever thankful for.

After The Masters....Sir William Russell Flint....

2010-03-16T15:10:00.001Z

One of my favourite artists has always been Sir William Russell Flint..Especially the paintings of his ladies......For class we had to choose a painting and copy it.... So I chose "Cecilia Reading"

I couldn't get to grips with the gridding stuff he wanted us to use to get an exact copy, so I did a very quick sketch for guidelines, hence it's far from perfect as a copy

..Lost a few areas on the way, but on the whole I was pleased with it in the end...and it was fun to try

Don't have PS at the moment on this laptop, but this isn't too far from the colours IRL...

1/2 Sheet.... Arches 140lb.... W/N paints....

Light as a feather.......

2010-03-08T06:58:00.004Z

Line, colour, form, texture.....How to show these with watercolour & Ink

3 paintings to do for the art course. We were given a quails egg and a feather. First to paint the still life in watercolour, showing how to create texture with different movements of the brush. Next to draw the set up in pen and ink showing the form. Then onto the last where we will combine both. how much ink to put on it to give it form without adding too much...

I only managed the get the 1st one done so have bought it home to finish.......that was until Taz my dear little monster of a kitten got hold hold of the feather...I need to go find a new one :D...

Painting Eyes...

2010-02-21T15:32:00.000Z

Working on painting features.....the eyes to me are the most important feature if you want a likeness to your model. Get these right and your halfway there..

First one done with a quick sketch.....2nd one straight in with watercolour, no sketching, more delicate for a child and more what I'm aiming for....

Drawing towards Portraits...

2010-02-21T10:27:00.001Z

.I am really hooked and love to paint portraits, especially those of children. When not having enough time to paint, I will find time to draw, and constantly have my pencils to hand. I have found it gives me a better understanding of the features to do this prior to painting a larger piece, especially if I am concentrating on getting a likeness and have learnt so much. I have also find I am enjoying the art of drawing again, something I haven't done enough of for a long time... These are all studies of my grandson Isi, I am so lucky to have 2 beautiful models to hand, and of course makes it even more enjoyable.

As I like to work in a looser style when painting, doing these studies helps me to see where the shapes and tones are before going onto the painting, what to put in, and what to leave out..

Bethan.....

2010-02-01T19:00:00.002Z

When I had a message from a lovely lady, Shirley, who I met through RedBubble, offering me the use of her photos, should I want to use them as a ref for painting, I jumped at the chance.....Amongst her beautiful work she does wedding photography and I just loved one of them in particular....

This is a quick sketch at Bethan's face to get the likeness, and work with colours. Not quite there yet, but I was quite pleased with it....I am now working on the larger piece....

Colours are slightly off due to photographing in poor light...

My special thanks to Shirley.. sfoxphotography

"Watching"

2010-01-11T10:56:00.003Z

This is the 2nd time of painting this, 1st time was for a present for my sister. This time a commission from someone viewing my website..

Sarah....

2010-01-10T12:12:00.001Z

This watercolour was painted for a challenge where two groups collaborated together. Real Life Photography & Real Life Artwork to paint a photo.

I’d like to say a special thanks to Riggzy for allowing us to paint her beautiful photo of Sarah, it was a delight to paint.

Calendar now available...

2010-01-10T12:03:00.002Z

A calendar of my watercolours is now to purchase at RedBubble.

.and Tigger too........

2010-01-05T09:49:00.004Z

This was a Christmas present for my sister, and the 2nd time of painting it..She wanted the original I had painted as a tutorial on an art forum, to go with my 2 lions paintings she already has. Unfortuanley one of my cats Pudsy, walked into my palette and across the original so I had to do it again :D...

I didn't have time to draw it so started with the mouth line in Indigo and worked out from there. This was a mad rush as I had others to do for Xmas so didn't get painted until Christmas night, then had to be mounted ready for boxing day..Talk about just go for it, amazing how paintings often turn out better this way......

This was painted from one of my own photos, taken at Howlett's Wildlife Park.

Zahrah....

2010-01-03T14:17:00.002Z

Another sketch of my granddaughter Zahrah... Again trying out different colours and getting the likeness. These sketches take no more than 30min at the most. By doing these it's amazing how you quickly you get more comfortable with drawing and painting the human face..

Sarah....

2010-01-03T13:56:00.003Z

This is for a painting challenge between Artists & Photographers on RedBubble . The little girl is Sarah, photographed by her aunt Riggzy, who has kindly given her permission for the use of her photo.

When working on a portrait, I do a few initial sketches to get used to the subject. Some just pencil, others with colour, before I go onto the full size painting ....

An Artist in the making.....

2010-01-03T12:43:00.004Z

We had a wonderful Christmas day with the family and little Isi & Zahrah... We had bought Isi an easel as one of his presents..Amazing having never seen one before he picked up his chalk and started to draw with it. An Artist in the making for sure :D

Un phased with all the noise and bustle of the day, opening of presents and excitement, Zahrah is in her own little world, a little angel....

Happy New Year.......

2010-01-01T13:09:00.005Z

Happy
New Year

everyone...
.and all the best for
2010

Seasons Greetings....

2009-12-12T15:39:00.003Z

Seasons Greetings ......

A photograph I took of some holly and worked in Ps....

Visit my Redbubble portfolio to buy Seasons Greetings along with other cards & prints of my Art....

Golden Moments.....

2009-12-12T12:16:00.005Z

After visiting the Turner Exhibition, Joanna and I collected some of the beautiful autumn leaves that lay on the hedges and ground outside. There is so much around at this time of year, wonderful golden leaves, rose hips and much more to inspire an artist....

We put some of the leaves on the table in my studio and started doing some sketches, playing with colours, and trying to create some of the wonderful textures with in the leaves..Even the broken edges were inspiring...

we also had help from our student who seemed to enjoy the rustle of the leaves in the bag :)

I want to be a Ballerina......

2009-11-18T11:24:00.002Z

I have sketched this little girl in pencil a while ago and it was sitting here on my to do list to paint.

Feeling unwell this week I started a very quick sketch with no intentions of it turning into a finished painting. I have been trying to bring more colours into my portraits to make them feel more alive, so I find this a way of trying out different colours and learning without the pressure of it being a finished painting.

I have also found that if I just "go for it", fairly quickly putting in what I see it often results in better work. For something that started as a quick sketch and using up colours left on my pallet from painting with Joanna last week, this turned out a whole lot better than I expected....

This photo doesn't really show too much the different colours in the skin tones, but there are some I would normally never think of using. It's a good lesson I learned from this, not to be afraid of trying something new, you never know how it will turn out.. It may not be a masterpiece but it is another step forward...

My special thanks to Randysart from Wet Canvas for the use of her beautiful photo..

2009-11-18T00:20:00.006Z

Turners and the Masters

Tate Britain
23 September 2009 - 31 January 2010

Last week, Joanna, a friend from Holland and I, were fortunate to see the "Turner and the Masters" exhibition at the Tate Britain.....

This is the first ever exhibition to see Turners work, with each piece being shown along side masterpieces by Canaletto, Rubens, Rembrandt and Titian to name but a few. A magnificent display of art, with many works being shown together for the first time in hundreds of years.

If you get a chance to see it, take..It's not to be missed....

Beach Baby.....

2009-11-06T01:27:00.002Z

when I saw the photo of this adorable little girl I just had to paint her. Many thanks to Simona for allowing me to use the image.

Sketching....

2009-11-06T01:14:00.003Z

When I don't have time to paint, I try almost daily to sketch with pencil. I am working on learning and improving portraits, so often will just doodle different features. It's amazing how quickly you can improve doing this.

This was a quick sketch of my mum, although i need to work on mouths more...

kreative Blogger Award....Thank you Cindi....

2009-11-05T23:26:00.014Z

I was absolutely thrilled when I had a message from a wonderful friend Cindi to say there was an award waiting for me on her Blog and I was to come along and collect it. I'm fairly new to blogging so wasn't really sure what this was, although I had seen some around.

If you take a look at Cindi's Blog you will understand why she herself was awarded this. She is an amazing woman who copes daily with so much yet still finds time to pick up her brushes, along with inspiring others. Cindi works so hard to learn and improve her art and is a true inspiration to any of us who are looking to further our journey.

Thank you so much for this Cindi, and for being both a wonderful friend and an true inspiration.

I understand I now have to tell you 7 things about myself and then pass this award onto 7 other people.

1...I live with my fiancé Dave and 5 cats, I have 2 sons and 3 wonderful grandchildren.

2...I love to paint, sketch and almost anything else creative. My 1st love is watercolours, although I’ve just ventured into Acrylics, and most recently pastels, which I have fallen in love with... I too hope to be trying out oils very soon.

3...My other passion is photography which only started as a means to take my own reference photos for painting, but soon developed in to more when Dave bought me my 1st DSLR. Now I am almost never seen without my camera.

4...I was fortunate a few years ago to go on an African Safari. I would say that is the one place I would love to live, amongst all the animals of course...lol..

5...I love all animals and every chance I get I visit wildlife parks. I also love to visit the local lakes to catch shots of the wildlife there.

6...I love cats and am owned by 5 of them, the last in the family being Taz...

7...After leaving school I made my career as a Draughtswoman, in the days when all was done by hand and not on the computer.

Next To pick 7 people......

This for me was the hardest part as there are so many artists I admire, and new ones I have been fortunate to come across since starting my blog. Please take a moment to look at their sites, you won't be disappointed.

Joanna
Kay Smith.
Krista
Melissa Fischer
Sandeep Khedkar
Fernando Pena
Fabio Cembranelli

Meet Hara......

2009-10-15T13:09:00.000+01:00

This is Hara….

A female Snow Leopard Cub born at Paradise Wildlife Park on 26th May 2009, and 2nd cub born to parents Kush and Aron. Their first cub was a male called Tien Shan who is now in France

White Lion Cub.......

2009-10-15T00:55:00.003+01:00

I have spent 2 days over the last week at Paradise Wildlife Park. We were so fortunate yesterday to see both the 2 White Lion Cubs, and the Snow leopard cub were out playing most of the time. They were just too cute.....

2 Years Old Today..

2009-10-09T07:58:00.003+01:00

Nannie's little treasure is 2 years old today. I can't believe how the time has flown past.....

Taz......

2009-10-09T00:40:00.003+01:00

The Devil himself....getting some much needed rest before he starts terrorizing again :D.. Mice and Frogs I can deal with, but when he brings me in worms and parks them on the kitchen floor.......arghhhhh

........and we need to get some ground rules down on what are his toys, and what are mine......

Off for a Waddle.....

2009-10-08T18:13:00.003+01:00

When paintings aren't happening the way you'd like them too, it's fin to paint just for fun... these ducks waddles up for their food every morning and evening at the house we stayed at in France...

That Special Moment (Sketch)

2009-09-24T19:05:00.009+01:00

This photo I posted a while back was taken by my son of me holding my granddaughter the day she was born....

This was a quick sketch straight in with the brush. done whilst deciding on the next stage and waiting for another painting to dry ... Using the colours I had already in my palette, and about 15mins. Sometimes I find these turn out better than the ones I spend ages on, probably the lack of pressure.......

I do plan to do this again, taking a bit more care and on better paper....

Sleep like a Babe....

2009-09-24T17:11:00.003+01:00

Painted from a photo of Zahrah my granddaughter....

The little lady herself.......

2009-09-19T23:55:00.003+01:00

Already 5 weeks old and growing so fast......Just look at those chubby little cheeks :D