April in Tuscany

This was done from a photograph that I have had for a while. The scene was so idyllic - I wanted the soft colours of a spring evening but it turned out quite strong . The buildings were difficult because they really are crooked, and nearly patched together, but that is their charm too.

Lupins

It has been nearly a month since I last painted, so the lupins in the garden were my starting point today. They reminded me of the colours that Sorolla often favoured, and yet it is his strokes that are so magical. Onward, forward......

Poppy Lane

Because this red is such a delicious colour, I had to discipline myself and keep it to a minimum. This scene is from Provence when Ian took those who wanted to paint poppies so that we would get it out of our system. Must say, it still is IN my system.