Merry Christmas one and all

Just a few more days of painting until I put down my brushes and put up my feet for Christmas. I have had such a happy time in my studio recently getting work ready for the Priory Exhibition in January and trying out some new colour combinations.

This painting 'Rough Pasture' is the latest to come off my easel and is on it's way to the gallery in Masham tomorrow.

Thank you to everyone who has visited the gallery this year and given us such rewarding and motivational feedback, your kind words and smiley faces have reminded Jane and I that my paintings and the quirky gifts which decorate and compliment my work really do make a difference to your day. The gallery is open this weekend on Friday and  Saturday10a.m. until 4 p.m. then on Sunday 12 noon until 4 p.m. So let me take this opportunity to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a new year that is filled with laughter, love, happiness and health. xxxxx

Clotted Cream Cottages

My friend Hilary has been influenced by my quirky cottages and has come up with these gorgeous little  wall hanging cuties. Each cottage is approximately 10 cm square and comes in it's own little box, I fell in love with them at first sight I expect you will too.

Hilary can be contacted through her website www.hilarytillyardceramics.co.uk

Rainbow Colours

Sometimes something just catches your eye and lifts your heart, something as simple as shower gel,
but those colours just sing ! This is why I always have my camera with me, you just never know when you will spot something that should be shared.

It's a kind of magic

In the words of Queen 'It's a kind of magic' seems a perfect description of this evening's sunset.

Early morning walk

Sometimes at this time of year it is tempting on a cold morning to stay in bed and pull the duvet up round your ears. I was so glad I resisted the temptation this weekend. Something was calling me to pull on my wellies and get out into the Autumn air. I am so glad I did....

The beautiful colours of the common.

Delightful Detail

Sometimes the tiniest detail can be exquisite, it would have been so easy to miss these little shutter brackets,

French Inspiration

Often people ask me where I get the idea of quirky and lopsided houses, well actually if we look around it isn't so hard to see. I just love these little French buildings and see characters in each of them. It makes me smile when I look at the stripy ones and see them as  little characters dressed in their pyjamas.

The streets of Quimper were a joy to explore, the buildings nestle together shoulder to shoulder like old friends.

And this little one was just up my street.

Gorgeous Gourds

Look what I found in the market ! Lots of lovely little gourds some of which look like little swans with their long curved necks and beaks. Amazing colours too !

Autumn Fruits

Let's forget about the terrible weather we have been suffering recently and celebrate some of the fabulous colours of Autumn. Admittedly I had to go to France to photograph the grapes on the vine but our home grown berries can be seen in our own hedgerows at the moment.

People say the nicest things

When people come into the gallery in Masham it is always lovely to have the chance to chat. it is great to welcome returning visitors and meet those new to our little shop. The comments people leave in our visitors book and the nice things people say about my work and the cute little building are so important and motivating. Amongst others one of the comments that stood out this week was from a lovely lady who, as she was leaving turned and said 'You make magic in here, you do'.

Angels in the sky

There have been such beautiful skies above Yorkshire this week and I have been indulging in one of my favourite pass times , cloud watching.  I just wanted to share this Angel with you.

Hilary's Hens

My friend Hilary has been at it again! Down the garden in her little studio she has been playing with her clay whilst watching her comical free range chickens. They have inspired her to create these dear little  characters. I have placed my order already and can't wait to welcome them into my studio.

Take a look at Hilary's website www.hilarytillyardceramics.co.uk

Alternative decoration

When someone comes and knocks a hole in your chimney breast and creates a massive redecoration situation, don't get down, just welcome a new artwork opportunity !

Topiary Heaven

 Pamela and her gardening girlfriends would have been in their element if they had been with me on a visit to Brodsworth Hall last week. The topiary was just up their street, with sketchbook in hand I spent a glorious afternoon with extra inspiration from the croquet match that was taking place. Sunshine and Smiles indeed !

The Tockwith Show

Last Sunday we had a grand day out. Tockwith Show is our local traditional show where I get lots of inspiration for my paintings. From 'The Cake Tent' to 'The Pride and Joy of Mr Mcavoy'. Pet rabbits and fancy foul, Pony Club games and Shire Horses, Terriers and Tractors, Crafts and Baking, a feast for the eyes. We took it in turns to look after the little gazeebo where I was selling bits and bobs so that we could each enjoy a day full of Sunshine and Smiles.

A perfect weekend

Jumping on a plane, catching up with someone special , exploring new and hidden places, meeting lovely new friends Maura and Pat, talking and listening and finding time just to sit and be still. We should do it more often.

One of the little gems I discovered was Bannow Bay a tiny harbour that just has to be featured in one of my paintings very soon.