- Nov 29, 2023
- 1 min read
As December dawns and the frosty mornings sprinkle stars on the hard ground, there's a joy in closing the curtains and curling up.
A beautiful seasonal slowing down, a time for painting, reading, and dreaming.
Wintering
I bought myself a book, 'Wintering' by Katherine May
“I recognized winter.,,.
“I recognized winter. I saw it coming (a mile off, since you ask), and I looked it in the eye. I greeted it and let it in. I had some tricks up my sleeve, you see. I've learned them the hard way. When I started feeling the drag of winter, I began to treat myself like a favored child: with kindness and love. I assumed my needs were reasonable and that my feelings were signals of something important. I kept myself well-fed and made sure I was getting enough sleep. I took myself for walks in the fresh air and spent time doing things that soothed me. I asked myself: What is this winter all about? I asked myself: What change is coming?” ― Katherine May, Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times
Hard Frosts
So beautiful, visually, a feast for the eyes. So harsh on nature, forcing the last leaves to fall, and growth to stall. The animal instinct in us knows to retreat. It's in our DNA and our grandmother's wisdom. But just as in autumn we know winter is coming, in winter we know spring is coming.
Dark Nights
Embracing the sometimes scary darkness of winter.
Turning off the noise, creating space for the dark.
Accepting the slowing down and welcoming the wisdom of winter.
Full Moons
The moons this winter seem to have been bigger, more illuminating, enchanting, expanding. Clear seeing, knowing that the work and the gathering done in the summer months will nourish and sustain until the spring.
Coming home .... and Fat Badgers
On my way home, a rare glimpse of a fluffed-up fat badger as he snuffled along the lane.
He makes me smile.
- Oct 31, 2023
- 2 min read
AS THE SEASON TURNS. A BEAUTIFUL, QUIET TIME OF YEAR, A TIME FOR COMING INWARDS, HOMEWARDS, A TIME, AS WE SAY IN WALES, FOR 'CWTCHING'.
Winter for me means one thing - simplifying.
My work routine, my schedules. In the studio it means simplifying the space I work in, and decluttering after the Autumn paintings are finished. More over, and in a seasonal change that I adore, it means simplifying the palette of colours I use in my paintings. Putting away the greens and burnt oranges, my hand excitedly reaches now for the dusty pinks, mauves, and golds to complement the plain, drawn neutral backgrounds I love.
My winter palette ranges from rusty red to dark grey, deep yellows to sage brown, and pink to gold. Even the most delicate and subtle shades will have their place in my winter palette, inviting experimentation and rediscovery of classic winter colours in an original way.
THE WINTER OF LISTENING - a poem by David Whyte
What is precious inside us does not care to be known by the mind in ways that diminish its presence. What we strive for in perfection is not what turns us into the lit angel we desire. What disturbs and then nourishes has everything we need. What we hate in ourselves is what we cannot know in ourselves but what is true to the pattern does not need to be explained. Inside everyone is a great shout of joy waiting to be born. And here in the tumult of the night I hear the walnut above the child’s swing swaying its dark limbs in the wind and the rain now come to beat against my window and somewhere in this cold night of wind and stars the first whispered opening of those hidden and invisible springs that uncoil in the still summer air each yet to be imagined rose. You can read the full poem here
WINTER PAINTINGS - HOME DECOR INSPIRATION
There's no getting away from it, paintings need walls to hang on.
And what you hang on your walls really does matter.
Build inspiration for your home decor around an artwork you really love, love, love and you're guaranteed to be building a home that resonates with your authentic self. And of course, if you live in a space that echoes your authentic self you will be happier, more settled, more as we say in Wales 'cwtched'. It's simple (which is what I love) and it works.
If you're interested in this concept of authentic living, I can recommend The Book of Do - a manual for living
WINTER PAINTINGS - YOUR HOME AESTHETIC
For me, painting is about:
the narrative
the stories
the people
the scene and most of all it's about the season.
As it's the season that dictates the colour, and the colour is what I'm all about.
I'm often asked if it's wrong to hang winter paintings all year round.
It's an understandable question. An answer could be is it wrong to hang beachy summer paintings all year round? Dig deeper and maybe what this question really asks is 'I love this painting, but can I trust my taste?'
When I'm teaching artists I always encourage them to continually monitor their inner 'yeses' - in other words their personal discernment. This can be hard at first as we are all used to being told what to look at, what to like, what to value. When in truth we are all so very beautifully individual, with individual tastes, likes and values. We can not like what everyone else likes, and there's no reason that we should.
Here's the only thing that matters when considering art for your wall.
How does it make you feel? Does it resonate with your authentic self? Will it make you feel more at home? if so .... then buy it. You'll be coming home to yourself.
The paintings featured here were from previous years' Winter Collections and are all now SOLD. My 2023 Winter paintings will soon be available. To see these when they are released, please sign up for my newsletter here.
If you'd like to enquire about any artwork, please do contact me
- Sep 30, 2023
- 3 min read
Art has the unique power to transform a house into a home.
It adds personality, character, and a sense of identity to a space. While buying ready-made art is convenient, there's something truly special about commissioning artwork for your home. It allows you to bring your vision to life and create a connection with the artist.
I've worked with many clients to create bespoke artwork for them. Often to mark a significant birthday or anniversary. Many people choose to have a painting of a favouite place, family and animals, a home or an event.
I've also painted commissions for businesses - from The Welsh Assembly to restaurants to farmers.
Commissioning your own unique artwork from me is a straightforward and enjoyable process.
It is very easy to have your own unique piece of artwork painted just for you, perhaps a scene, place or event that has special significance.
Working with your ideas I will create a beautiful bespoke painting, something you will treasure that is unique to you.
Knowing that you have been involved in the creation of a work of art which wouldn't otherwise exist and of course, owning original artwork is pure pleasure.
Personal Expression
Commissioning artwork for your home is a chance to express your unique personality and style. Whether you prefer abstract paintings, realistic portraits, or sculptures, the commissioned piece becomes a reflection of your taste and preferences. Collaborating with an artist allows you to convey your ideas and preferences, resulting in a piece of art that resonates deeply with you.
Tailored to Your Space
One of the most significant advantages of commissioning artwork is the ability to tailor the painting to your space. Artists can create artwork that fits perfectly with the dimensions, colors, and ambiance of your room. This ensures that the artwork not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also seamlessly integrates with your interior design.
A Story to Tell
Every commissioned artwork has a story to tell. It's not just about the final product but also the journey of its creation. When you commission a piece, you get to know the artist's inspiration, process, and the stories behind the work. This connection adds depth and meaning to the artwork, making it more than just a decorative piece.
Collaborative Experience
The process of commissioning artwork is a collaborative experience. It involves communication and
sharing ideas with the artist. This interaction fosters a sense of connection and appreciation for the creative process. It's a journey where you and the artist work together to bring your vision to life, resulting in a piece that is truly one-of-a-kind.
Emotional Connection
Commissioned artwork often holds a deep emotional connection. Unlike mass-produced art, which may be beautiful but lacks personal significance, a commissioned piece is created with you in mind. It can evoke emotions, memories, and sentiments that are unique to your life and experiences.
A Lasting Legacy
Art has a timeless quality to it. When you commission artwork for your home, you're not just acquiring a decoration; you're creating a lasting legacy. The artwork can be passed down through generations, becoming a cherished family heirloom that tells a story about your life and values.
Commissioning artwork for your home is gratifying and meaningful. It allows you to express your individuality, support the arts, and create a lasting connection with an artist.
The resulting piece of art becomes more than just a decoration; it's a reflection of your personality, a testament to your support of creativity, and a lasting legacy that will continue to enrich your home for years to come.
If you're looking to elevate your space and add a touch of uniqueness, consider the transformative power of commissioning artwork.
What clients are saying
"Just to say that our painting is hung and looks beautiful. We love the composition and the colours, which are so vibrant and happy. Also loving all the details that make it so special and bring back fond memories of a very happy childhood. Thanks again for delivering such a lovely painting, which will become a family heirloom." - Trevor & Julie
"Helen our beautiful, fabulous painting arrived on Friday. We absolutely LOVE our painting. You are a marvelous lady with that painting brush of yours. Thank you for taking the idea and making it far better than the reality we had hoped for" - Julia & Nick Lambert
"We really love it, both as a painting and as a wonderful reminder of very happy times.It makes me smile just to look at it, the memories it brings back are priceless. Thank you." - Margaret Munroe
Brilliant. Pure brilliant. Thank you ever so, ever so much for this - it's been the best present ever received. It will hang on our walls for future generations to be enthralled with, and put a smile on everyones face!" - R.Eccles
Commissioning a painting - FAQs
I can work from photographs or site visits. I can paint based on colours, a favourite place, a season, adding any personal details you'd like.
Yes I would be delighted to paint your wedding, or special occasion, from your photographs.
Depending on size, paintings take between 4-8 weeks.
Cost varies according to size, from £495 - £6000.
A 25% deposit is payable on booking, and the balance is on completion.
Bespoke framing is available, as is worldwide insured courier delivery.
Want to find out more?
The first step is to get in touch with me for an initial discussion and we'll take it from there.