Incoming Storms

Loving all this snow we've been having. When I'm not having to go out driving in it. And as long I've got all my thermals and waterproof footwear and socks two inches thick....
Missing the sight of green grass though. Not seen it for close to five weeks now, but on the plus side I've been very inspired by the elemental colours and shapes and pared down forms and contours the snow moulds out of the landscape. Been trying out oil paints for a change, and trying to figure out how to get my ideas and style down on canvas. Was struggling with a few paintings, so decided to go out with the dogs, came back to the studio looked out the window and saw this scene. (Sort of... kinda have to allow for artistic license and all that....) Got it down on canvas in the space of about 15 minutes which was great. Not a great photo taken of it, but just a record as its now off for a new life as someones Christmas present. They chose it themselves, so its not a big surprise if they happen to catch sight of it on here!

I've been trying to get together a series of sketches in preparation for an etching course I've booked myself on - here is the first. A wee group of trees drawn on a very cold but beautiful day trying to stay upright on an icy road, with a very patient dog waiting for me to get going again.

Not quite sure what drawing I'll finally covert into an etching this weekend, and not even sure if this one will make the cut, but can't wait to get started. If it all turns out well, I'll post my efforts next week, and who knows, it may be a new way forward for me.

First real snow of the winter today. Trees and land covered, and things never noticed before are really standing out. Shapes and angles of branches, colours more intense and vibrant, the different marks and pattern from boots in peoples footprints, sunlight drawing a golden halo around an impatient dog who's not interested in this at all but just wants you to get on with it and throw the stick....