Out and about with a Stratford-Upon-Avon Artist...

This week has felt very full, in a good way, (mostly).

I’ve been back out painting in Stratford-upon-Avon and I have to say, I’m thoroughly enjoying working out and about now (although it’s taken a huge amount of courage!).

There’s something about painting in-situ, live, in the moment, that feels very different to being tucked away indoors.

People are intrigued by it too. One of the joggers who passed me a few weeks ago actually got in touch over the weekend. He sent me a couple of photos he’d taken. I love that! Those unexpected little connections that come from simply being out there doing it.

Alongside the main roundabout into Stratford, I noticed a traveller’s horse and wagon. 

I love painting travellers wagons. There’s something undeniably romantic about that way of life. Although, having spent a few weeks on the road myself recently, I know it’s not all romance. It’s hard work. Tiring. And must be difficult without certain inbuilt 'home comforts.'

I was completely absorbed in trying to get the basics down before the light changed. That familiar feeling of working against time and I didn’t realise until much later that I’d lost my car keys!

That moment of dread when it hits you…

I spent a good half hour retracing my steps, only to find that someone had kindly handed them in nearby. There are good people in the World!

I love, love, LOVE this pochade! It's so light and easy to use...if you'd like one, send me a message, the makers have kindly given me a 10% discount code for you.

 

The weekend I painted two portraits...

The first is the Mayor Alcester...

The second is of actor Christopher Saul. He was an absolute joy to paint. Incredibly entertaining, talking the whole way through about his life. He spoke about his career, beginning with the Royal Shakespeare Company and how actors often see it as a respected stepping stone into other opportunities. He's worked with a few familiar names along the way too, the likes of Charles Dance and Ben Kingsley. He's been in programmes like The Archers and Dr Who (which means he's invited to their conventions).

He did say, as an actor, you’re always searching for the next piece of work, and often teaching alongside it to pay bills. Sounds familiar!!!

Which brings me to something interesting.

Over the past week alone, I’ve been asked at least three times, in person, if I teach.

It’s clearly something people are curious about. So I thought I’d ask you…if I were to offer workshops, or an online community what would you actually want to learn?

Painting outdoors? Getting started with oils? Loosening up? Something else entirely?

I’d genuinely love to know.

 

 

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o 0 o    On a slightly more personal note… I had a CT scan earlier, with more tests to follow...(so please excuse me if I'm late with my letters over the next few weeks...)   Lying there, staring at the ceiling brought back a lot of not-so-nice memories from when I was treated for cancer. It’s a strange thing. You move forward with life, but times like that remind you it never completely leaves you.  And it’s also why supporting cancer charities matters so much to me.

Not for sympathy, but because I’ve seen and felt the long tail of it. The parts people don’t always see. And the more we can do to support research and treatment, the better that future becomes for someone else.

And finally...on a much lighter note....

I posted Jo's painting this week.

 

Here's her review:-

"Lorraine created a most unique painting from just one basic photograph: "a day at work". An unusual choice as it portrays me strolling across an airfield to board a flight to another Press Launch. I have known Lorraine since she was age 8 and have total trust in her and her talent to create exceptional art, but was a little apprehensive as the subject she had chosen, from a full portfolio, was rather unusual. But! - even just opening this beautifully wrapped art, complete with a typically thoughtful Lorraine message-card, was a pleasure. A true treasure. Lorraine takes no prisoners when creating simply stunning art. I cannot thank her enough for capturing the spirit of a challenging Work Day so beautifully, so skilfully, with so much attention to detail. It is simply uber-special."

 

Those reviews make such a difference, not just to my business, but to the confidence of others who are thinking about bringing a piece into their home.