A6 sketchbook plein air drawing in oil pastels, sunset over Loch Pooltiel
So much has happened I haven’t had time to write. I’ve been ill, in hospital, had surgery. All new things. My sister died today. Lots of difficult things, incompatible with a cool head needed to paint. I’ve been to Skye again and, mustering everything, managed to make some scrimpy plein air sketches. That was just after the last time I saw my sister. One of the sketches must become a larger painting. I hope it will work.
oil pastel sketch of Loch Pooltiel, early evening, plein air, A6 sketchbook
The river god is gone. The stream flowing through the rocks is unimpeded. Summer is over. There is deep snow up on the hill where I sat and painted in the summer evening air. Even then, the sky held melancholy feelings. Now those feelings linger in the pale blue over the distant peaks with their blank coverings.
on the ridge near Crosdale, Howgills, summer evening, plein air painting, oil on canvas, 9×12 inches
I’m so very sorry for the loss of your sister. I offer my deepest condolences and also hope you are recovering. In spite of that, you managed to get sketching done. Brava! The emotions and impressions you describe are the things that become infused in our work, like an echo of a moment. Your work is beautiful, and you can think of those sketches and the paintings to come as offerings to the Gods. A connection of spirit that surrounds you and keeps you in safety. Peace.
Thanks for your very kind words Laurie.
Beautiful.
Thankyou.