You. Me. And the big blue Sea (Original, Signed and Framed)

Painting Size: 78cm x 56cm

Watercolour on rough textured cotton paper.

I am currently staying in Lagos in Portugal and this is the first large painting I've produced here. I came here because I felt I needed change, change from the familiarity of my typical surroundings, which at this time of year can often have a veil of grey, windy coldness, on the south coast of the UK.

Perhaps I was seeking a kind of jump start to the year and certainly the light and colours here dance with a vibrancy, the water is fresh and clean and against the sand, in the shallows, it glows with that beautiful turquoise tint. The coastline couldn't be more different to home, the jagged dropping cliffs and rock formations jutting out the sea like natures strange sculptures.

One year ago, at this time I was going through a difficult period in which self doubt had set in very deeply.  My mind had been highjacked and for a time I was a kind of passenger adrift in a very bleak, isolated place.  I suppose this trip is my antidote, a counterpoint, for which I am grateful to absorb - relieved as I am not to be in the same headspace.

Alain de Botton, in his book 'The Art of Travel' says "The pleasure we derive from journeys is perhaps dependent more on the mindset with which we travel than on the destination we travel to."

To this end, like the large sheets of paper I've travelled with, I arrived with my mind empty, ready to receive whatever comes my way.  Already I have met some lovely people, felt the sun of my face and skin, eaten some delicious food, played a significant amount of Padel tennis and gently I am letting go of all that has been. 

We are not defined by times in which we struggle, I tell myself this because it takes strength to reawaken to the light that exists all around us.  As I clambered over the safety structure of the cliff walkways of the peninsula here, I got to the edge and looked down upon the view that's in this painting.  The colours were ablaze in the afternoon sun and two people stood looking out, the moment caught me.  I was reminded of how important companionship is, of my friends and family.  I thought about who I might like to have standing next to me, looking out at the horizon.

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I provide framing consultation for each original painting, the cost includes that bespoke service.  This can be done in person at my gallery or remotely if that isn't possible.  I ship original paintings (all with art glass - or pallet frames if canvas) throughout the UK and internationally. If you have any questions please fee free to contact me.