On the road
A big factor in closing the gallery after 20 years was to give myself the freedom to paint further afield - and to paint more large scale work outside. I want to explore the UK and beyond in my recently auction-acquired 1977 VW, discovering new places to paint and doing a little unicycling along the way. If you have ideas of where I could go next or would like to commission a piece like this get in touch.
Stonehenge: The Neolithic wonder of the south-west
I went for a little painting trip to Stonehenge, one of the most famous Neolithic structures in the world. A fascinating location, filled with atmosphere, estimated to have taken a millennium and well over 20 million hours to construct by people with deep knowledge of astronomy, mathematics and engineering. The stones were transported over huge distances, including the alter stone which from north east Scotland nearly 500 miles away. Thanks to my son Floyd for filming (as well as unicycling while my knee gets better!). Once again Julie (the van) did us proud.
Autumn Fire
Capturing the last autumn colours. And getting blown about a little! This is between Acrise and Etchinghill and I’ve long admired the trees on this stretch of quiet road. Didn’t think I could let Charlie roam free at first but was glad once I did and he was as good as gold. Luckily the easel stayed intact when the painting nearly blew over, thought it wasn’t windy enough to use the guy ropes. When the sunlight hit those trees it was magical.
Wye, The Devil’s Kneading Trough
The sign there states, “Could this be the best view in Kent,” and you can see why it is famed for its dramatic views. Local folklore says the devil created the valley, and if you walk round it seven times you might just get to see him. I’m not so sure about that but the feeling of space is inspirational. I highly recommend visiting. Plenty of walks around there too.
Farthing Common: A Landscape of Layers
Farthing Common is a place of contrasts—open chalk grasslands meet ancient woodland, and distant views stretch toward the sea. It’s a landscape shaped by centuries of passage, from Roman roads to modern walkers. The light changes constantly here, casting long shadows and illuminating textures that speak of time and transformation.
Dungeness: A Place Like No Other
Dungeness is more than a location—it’s a mood. Shingle beaches stretch endlessly under vast skies. Abandoned boats, rusting machinery, and scattered dwellings tell stories of resilience and solitude. The nuclear power station looms in the distance, a surreal contrast to the fragile ecology that surrounds it.