Since my last update I have started several new paintings been to a number of exhibitions and hopefully got a chance to take part in a group show.
I am in the middle of painting a view of Warkworth Castle from the dunes near Amble. I have already done a version on an I pad and I am trying to use that as a reference. There are things you can do on a computer that you can’t on canvas. The most striking one is that you can work on layers on a computer which means you can paint or repaint the backgroung/undercoat. On a canvas this is virtually impossible. On the other hand the canvas is a physical object which has a presence that a computer screen lacks.
I have started a painting of Amble coastguard cottage again from the dunes and a depiction of Howdiemount beach in the thick snow that fell earlier this year. These last two paintings are still at a very early stage where I am trying balance the tones before introducing colour.
My studio is in the garage of the new house we have lived in since December and its great to have a space to paint although it a bit cramped and at times cold.
I went to see a group pop up show organised by a group of artists in Amble at the Customs House. Luke McTaggart, one of the artists, is a young up and coming local artist. He is always keen to talk about art and has asked me if I want to participate in a future group show he has organised. It’s a lovely gesture as he knows that being new to the area I have few contacts in Northumberland.
I also went to Newcastle for the day and trudged across town to the Biscuit Factory which is a very impressive venue and appears to be ‘the’ place to get your work exhibited in. This and one or two others galleries are what I am aiming for when I get a body of work together which fully reflects my style and artistic aspirations.
I have got lots of plans artwise but despite the fact I can paint full time it’s fitting everything in that’s the issue. I do however plan to do a link to all the artists, galleries, arts organisations and exhibitions that I have came across since I have been in Northumberland. Also I want to do links to all the artists that have inspired me to paint the way I do.
I would love anybody to give me feedback at john.shiels.1958@gmail.com