Original artwork description:

A break in an unseasonal (but not unusual!) British July gave the perfect window to dash off to my all-time favorite spot on the outskirts of the village of Coxwold where a delightful surprise awaited me. The field I love so much but had not found much inspiration on my last two visits, had just been harvested, and the addition of fresh straw bales brought a whole new enchanting dimension to the scenery.

Despite the annoying thunderbugs I was determined to capture the scene before the the sun disappeared behind the clouds. Working swiftly, I quickly indicated where the shadows where falling and then as the sun gave way to cloud I let my memory guide me, giving life to the late July colors of North Yorkshire's countryside. The fields painted in rich yellow ochre and burnt sienna contrasted and harmonized beautifully with the distant hills' mesmerizing ultramarine turquoise hues.

Oh, and let me tell you about Fox Folly! An old, charming white farmhouse perched on the narrow single track road to Oldstead. I enjoy painting it and the road every time I visit. Compositionally it works really well, but more than that—it's a road which leads to our old house and many happy memories.

So there I was, surrounded by the beauty and peace of a place so close to my heart. The joy of painting mixed with nostalgia, making this creative journey an unforgettable and heartwarming experience. That is until my next visit!

Materials used:

oil paints on canvas board

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