The year is marching on apace…..and now winter is certainly upon us. I am writing warmly curled up in my studio, watching the tree outside dance to the wind’s musical howl. But to backtrack a bit – last month we went to Wales for an inspiring break away. Our cottage was down a mile of track and up the side of a deep ravine. Whilst I was anticipating wonderful sketching daytrips, I did not expect our little cottage to be quite so inspirational…..

Whitesands features regularly in my life as I follow the life of the delightfully wonderful Jackie Morris in her blog and other writings. Her work is full of the magic of Wales, but also otherworldly places and people. It was a bit of a pilgrimage (sadly she was away on tour) and I was lucky enough to see originals of her work and prints at Solva Woolen Mill. I was so excited and longed to stay forever. Sadly that was not allowed so I satisfied myself with a signed copy of her latest book Wild Swans, and a calendar. Not quite the same as original artwork, but just as beautiful!

On other days we explored the countryside and coastlines, and visited Laugharne, the home of Dylan Thomas for many years, and thanks to a good push up the hill from my husband, we got to see his writing shed (apparently smartened up now, as the walls were too yellow from his smoking). Nonetheless, it was still full of atmosphere, and I could imagine him walking straight in and pondering on another play for voices.

It was such an inspiring trip and I drew constantly each day…in a way that often the day to day does not allow. I was even so inspired by the new boots I found in St Davids, that I simply had to paint one of them…….

And Finally…

Thankyou to all my new visitors. I noticed some from North and Eastern America and Australia popping up, so “Hello” around the world.