Nikky Corker

Miss Masham presentation

2012-01-23T06:46:00.003Z

Another highlight of the weekend was meeting Katy Lynch who is the winner of the competition in Dales Life Magazine. 3300 people from all around the country entered the competition to win one of my original paintings and Katy was able to travel to the Priory to be presented with her prize. I am very happy to know that Miss Masham has found a lovely new home and I have met a new friend who shares my sense of humour.

A Happy Time at the Priory

2012-01-23T06:35:00.004Z

This weekend's Priory Arts Exhibition was a great success and an opportunity to meet new friends and catch up with old friends that I haven't seen for ages. The show looked stunning with the work of 8 other fellow artists sitting alongside my latest canvases. Sculptures, textiles, ceramics, prints and paintings in the beautiful setting of Syningthwaite Priory. I am soooo lucky to have my studio here and to be able to come and be inspired by the view across the fields every day, and to have a gallery space just across the gardens is, as my kids would say 'GOLD".

New Work

2012-01-18T07:33:00.005Z

Just in case you are unable to attend the Priory Arts Exhibition this weekend we wouldn't want you to feel left out, you can see the new work that is hanging there by clicking on this link.

It's all go !

2012-01-18T07:20:00.002Z

The paint brushes are in the sink, and the framing begins ! As usual I am cutting it fine , but I am thrilled with how things are looking 10 new paintings including two big beauties ready to be introduced at the Priory Arts Exhibition opening on Friday morning at 10 a.m. through until closing on Sunday at 4 p.m. Several of the other artists came yesterday to bring their work and it was like Christmas all over again opening up the bubble wrap to take a peak at their lovely work. The show is going to look FAB! For more information take a look at the events page on my website.

Art in the Priory

2012-01-10T08:37:00.002Z

The colours are bright and beautiful, paint brushes are flying and the music is turned up loud . I am having a ball! I have 12 new originals waiting to show their faces, several of them will be exhibited at the 'Art in the Priory' exhibition which is to be held in the Priory Barn, a fantastic venue, near Walton, near Wetherby. You can find out more about it at www.priory-arts.com. I shall be releasing images of the new work on the website on the morning of 20th January to coincide with the opening of the exhibition. Do pop back and take a look, or better still come and see me at the exhibition it would be great to meet you. : 0)

More Goodies for the Gallery

2011-12-02T09:27:00.004Z

We are sooo excited, again ! Look what we have just added to the list of little lovelies in the gallery. Fantastic traditional wooden jigsaws with a twist. Each one has little 'whimsey' pieces hidden in the picture and they are not as easy as you might think because of the odd shaped pieces. They come in two sizes 'micro' ideal for a little gift or 250 pieces fun to share the challenge. We have 4 images available at the moment but judging by the interest they are creating I think we will be adding more images next year. What makes these good old fashioned quality jigsaws even more appealing is that they are made in Britain from sustainable sources.

New place mats

2011-09-27T15:59:00.007+01:00

As many of my lovely customers have been asking for place mats I have at last found someone to produce some. These great sets of 4 different designs in each of 4 themes are 23 cm square and available from the gallery in Masham. Hope you like them!

Meet my new friends

2011-09-25T11:26:00.010+01:00

Bless them all, the long and the short and the tall, the fat and the slim and the small, the comical, the haughty and the naughty. They were all there at the Masham Sheep Fair. I look forward to this weekend every year to bring me inspiration for my paintings and keep me busy with ideas through the winter. Look out for my latest work and see if you can spot any of the characters from the sheep fair appearing on my website in the near future.

A smile around every corner

2011-09-25T11:24:00.002+01:00

A chance to catch up

2011-09-25T11:22:00.002+01:00

How Rude!

2011-09-25T11:21:00.002+01:00

A quick wash and brush up

2011-09-25T11:20:00.001+01:00

Friendly Rivalry

2011-09-25T11:13:00.011+01:00

Making plans for Nigel

2011-09-25T11:13:00.002+01:00

Best Friends

2011-09-25T11:06:00.009+01:00

Hair styles of the day

2011-09-25T10:59:00.005+01:00

The Sheep Fair

2011-09-25T10:36:00.005+01:00

This weekend is the annual Sheep Fair in the market place here in Masham. Inspiration abounds as you will see from some of my photos. My sketch book is full too.

Norwegian Summer

2011-09-03T17:56:00.007+01:00

I have spent two fantastic weeks exploring 62 fjords, filling my sketch books and enjoying the sunshine. I don't usually like to bore people with my holiday snaps but thought you might like to see some of the inspirational sights I shared with the other passengers on board Minerva.

We were treated to waterfalls, glaciers, rainbows, colourful cottages and the most amazing sunsets made even more magical by the whales that played in the reflected lights on the waters surface.

Kippers for tea

2011-07-23T18:40:00.003+01:00

There is nothing like the smell of Oak Smoked Kippers, fresh from Fortunes Whitby Smoke House Yummy!

Summer Skies

2011-07-23T18:34:00.004+01:00

Every day there is something that makes me smile. Today it was the Summer bunting fluttering above Whitby Harbour.

Secret Corners

2011-06-04T11:46:00.003+01:00

If you are like me and love to have a little look at other peoples gardens you might like to see where I do some of my thinking. This is one of several corners of my garden which I have designed to be quiet spaces, each one catches the best of the sun at different times of day and each one gives a me different view of the garden. Our resident family of blackbirds are so confident that they are happy to splash in the bath whilst I sit and drink my tea and record their antics in my sketch book. At the moment I have so many ideas for new work it is difficult to know what to paint first but at the moment I am concentrating on the work that will be on show at the Exhibition in the gardens at RHS Harlow Carr in Harrogate. More details of that can be found on my events page. I hope you are enjoying the glorious sunshine, I am off out now to help at the Wetherby Lions Real Ale Festival that should be fun and I expect more inspiration for another painting!

Things that make you go aaahhhhh.

2011-05-19T18:17:00.005+01:00

Last week I took a trip to Devon and Cornwall to visit some of the great people I work with. Of course I stopped here and there to sketch and take in all of the things that inspire and delight me. Whilst visiting favourite places and walking favourite paths I came across some unexpected treats along the way. Like this gorgeous little harbour side house.

A happy family tucked away in a quiet backwater.

And this has to be the prettiest salad I have seen. Zoom in to see the fantastic colours of the tiny leaves, almost too good to eat.

Oh I do like to be beside the seaside

2011-05-01T10:09:00.006+01:00

Sometimes I just need to take time out and watch colours, feel space and empty my head. Being beside the sea I love the sense of freedom mixed with invigorating energy from the waves, the wide horizon temps me to wonder what journeys lie ahead, and great breaths of sea air are like nourishment for the soul.

As the sun goes behind the cloud the colours become more subtle and calming. These abstract snap shots are natures works of art for our inspiration.

Just over that hill is the beach and these little cottages are sheltered in the valley from the winds off the North Sea.

Sandsend village.

Last week my friend Sandie and I took off to the seaside for a breath of fresh air and to visit Tom in the Reading Room Gallery in Whitby. One of my favourite places on the North East Coast is Sandsend where I spent happy childhood holidays and days out. My brother Tim and I had a favourite game, when the tide came right in we would see if we could run between one set of steps to the next without getting soaked in between waves. Timing and speed were essential but we always seemed to turn up for tea soaked through head to toe and weak with laughter. I guess Sandsend is so special to me and reflected in many of my paintings because it is such a lovely mixture of country cottages and fabulous beach which is a great place to hunt for fossils.

Maids of Honour

2011-04-13T18:18:00.002+01:00

As promised here is the latest in the Wedding themed paintings. My sheep are using their amazing acrobatics skills whilst taking part in a fancy dress party to celebrate the Royal Wedding, when asked if their feat was dangerous they replied 'Nah, it's a piece of cake!'

The Happy Couple

2011-04-11T17:15:00.002+01:00

Just as the country is getting excited about The Royal Wedding I thought that I should join in with my own take on the day. This painting will be displayed in the window of the gallery in Masham during the celebrations and there is another almost finished which is amusing me at the moment. I shall add it to the blog later in the week.

Happy Days!

New kids in the flock

2011-04-02T18:00:00.006+01:00

I just love working with friends some of whom go back a long way. My mate Hilary and I used to share a flat at college in Cheltenham where I studied painting and she studied ceramics. Inspired by my painting 'The girls with the curls' she has created these little Corker Cuties just 8 cm tall. Individually hand made each one comes nestled in her own box with a certificate of authenticity and her own name. These little square sheep are available from the gallery and Jane will be happy to let you know more about them if you would like to call her on 07899653142. I have begun to collect my own little flock which live in the studio.

Original Sketches

2011-03-18T08:20:00.002Z

Whenever I visit artist friends of mine I am always keen to have a look at what they have been up to lately and if I am allowed I love to sit and look through their sketch books. Original sketches hold so much energy and you can actually feel the creative process as you turn the pages. So exciting!

Many of my sketches are done on bits of paper, old envelopes or anything that happens to be there when the ideas come to mind, so my hoard of sketches is contained in boxes as well as books. I often plan my next piece of work whist eating my porridge in the morning and gathering my thoughts for the day.

In talking to people I have realised that others too are interested in seeing my sketches so I have started to mount up some of them and present them for sale in the gallery. These sketches are an example of the beginnings of a series of sketches that are preparation for a painting called 'The Rock Poolers'.

Sing a song of Springtime

2011-03-14T12:59:00.004Z

I know I have been a little quiet of late but that is because I have been reeeeally busy! I have been moving to a beautiful new studio on a farm nearby. So now I have green acres to look out onto as I work instead of my garden. I have outgrown my special little garden studio which was groaning under the weight of all the work and stock so that is now going to become my very own tea room! A little sanctuary where I can sit and read or talk with friends or daydream or simply snooze. When I have finished furnishing I will let you take a peek.

But for now I will show you the very first painting that I have made in the new studio which has been inspired by the first of the spring lambs to arrive at the farm.

2011-01-16T12:04:00.002Z

Happy New Year to you all!

I know it is well into January already but things have been busy in the studio over the past couple of weeks. Getting everything ready for the Priory exhibition which we will be hanging this week. Flicking through a few photos that were taken over christmas I came across one that I must share with you. Not wanting to be left out of the nativity play Martha was offered the part of .........Baaatha the sheep!

Christmas is coming

2010-11-26T08:38:00.003Z

The days are flying past and now we have snow! Where has this year gone?

I still have lots of work to finish before I settle down with my mulled wine and mince pies in front of the fire. However, I just wanted to show you the painting I have made for The Black Sheep Brewery to use as their Christmas Card this year. For those of you who are not familiar with Black Sheep Ales they are one of the two Breweries that we are lucky to have in Masham. Another good reason to visit!!

I must admit that it was my daughter Ali that came up with the idea for this one.

Thanks Looby x

'Honey I'm Home!'

2010-10-24T18:35:00.003+01:00

I have been having a proper giggle with my paints recently as I have been planning my next pieces some of which are inspired by my recent visit to Iceland. Having spent happy times watching the comings and goings of these comical little birds on the cliffs amongst the wild flowers I just had to create this one taken from the many sketches that I made while we were away.

News from the gallery

2010-10-24T18:28:00.002+01:00

Just to let you know that I popped into the gallery today to drop off this years Christmas Cards which will be available as of tomorrow both on line and in Masham.

Sunday afternoon walk

2010-10-24T17:50:00.017+01:00

we have been enjoying some fantastic October sunshine today before dropping in on Jane at the gallery. A lovely circular walk through Hackfall woods just outside of Masham. As well as the beautiful autumn colours which are changing by the day the views from the ruin are spectacular reaching right across to Roseberry Topping in Cleveland. I just wanted to share some of our walk with you.

Introducing Mrs Nichols

2010-09-02T16:32:00.001+01:00

Autumn is on its way, the colours are changing, conkers are ripening and the orchards are rich with fruit. It is time to get the preserving pan out and make our jams and pickles to see us through the winter. I love this time of year when berries appear like jewels along the hedgerows, cobwebs sparkle in the morning dew and the air is full of the smell of autumn. Today I counted the different fruit as I walked the dog, wild cherries, elder, blueberries, sloes, rowan and hawthorn all in one field. So let me introduce you to a lady who lives down the lane who also loves this time of year and who features in my latest painting, her name is Mrs Nichols.

'Mrs Nichols' Jams and pickles'

Amazing Skies over Yorkshire

2010-09-01T09:59:00.001+01:00

I wonder who else saw those amazing skies yesterday evening. At about 6 o'clock I looked up as I often do to watch the clouds and was amazed to see what appeared to be a second sun in the sky surrounded by bright colours and then appeared an inverted rainbow which lasted for at least half an hour. The wispy clouds were very high in the sky and very beautiful like lots of dancing ladies. The rainbow colours surrounding a ball of bright white light were truly astonishing and I stood transfixed as I watched what is the nearest thing to the Northern Lights that I have ever seen.

Did you see it?

Cliff top comedians

2010-08-30T18:10:00.001+01:00

On our way to Iceland recently we stopped off in Shetland and while we were there we took a walk up to the lighthouse. The cliffs beneath are home to hundreds puffins, they are so comical with their big orange feet and bright bills. They were not at all afraid and happily carried on their daily routines whilst I sketched and photographed them. We could have stayed there all day but time was limited as our ship was due to leave. However I made lots of sketches ready to make some happy paintings featuring these little clowns.

By now they will have flown out to sea where they will spend the winter on the water, returning to Shetland next year to raise their young. They are tough little guys!

Mia lends a hand

2010-07-23T12:44:00.001+01:00

Sorry I have been absent for a while but things are so exciting and busy these days I am having difficulty fitting in all my correspondence or my blog entries. With the Harlow Carr Exhibition about to open, and lots of lovely happy paintings to make for lots of lovely happy people, and lesson plans to arrange for workshops coming up in the next couple of weeks and clothes to pack for a trip to Iceland to see whales and geysers and puffins and more. Not to mention more happy seaside paintings to make for The RLNI to choose for their calendars and note cards. So all in all it has been a busy couple of weeks. So I was grateful for the help of Amelia who worked alongside me last week for her work experience, she was so helpful not only in practical ways but also as my PA taking notes for me at meetings, and quickly getting the measure of me and my butterfly mind. Her constant nudges have you remembered to do this and don't forget to do that, was so helpful and we shared lots of silly giggly moments during the week which flew by.

Here is Mia helping in the gallery

Mia doing the stock taking

A sunny corner in the gallery

Well, I had better get off and frame my latest painting for all the lovers of Yorkshire sheep ready to go to the exhibition this weekend.

'Come on up the view is lovely'

Good Morning !

2010-05-19T08:26:00.001+01:00

The sun is shining and all is well, I have just pottered down the garden for my usual check to see what has appeared overnight. New shoots every day and my sweet peas are racing each other towards the top of their climbing frame. My runner beans are waking up and stretching like lazy teenagers being dragged from their beds and my peonies are like shiny green and red marbles getting ready to burst open like a chorus of loud overdressed ladies trying to out sing each other. Just outside my studio is a pot of pretty pansies who make me smile when I look into their cheerful faces and see them wink back at me and wriggle in the breeze like giggling school girls.

And now the kettle is on and I am going to treat myself to ten minutes of me time just sitting and watching the bumble bees.

Have a lovely day!

If you go down to the woods today.....

2010-05-16T15:42:00.001+01:00

You're sure of a big surprise ! Hidden amongst the bluebells you will find me and my friends grabbing the opportunity to capture this truly gorgeous scene. I was giving a workshop on composition and how to make use of your sketch book to record the colours of a British woodland in May. What a treat !

And Alfie came too.

More exciting parcels arrive

2010-04-29T09:11:00.001+01:00

It was just like Christmas once more this week, parcel after parcel has been delivered with all sorts of goodies. New packs of Sunshine and Smiles collection 3, the latest published cards from Glebe Cottage Studio and lovely little packs of note cards commissioned especially by the RLNI which will be available in their shops very soon. I gather there is to be a calendar too before long, can't wait to see that! The most recent box to arrive was my lovely new tea towels taken from my painting 'The Garden Party'. They will be available to buy from my web site very shortly, I hope you like them. x

Spring time in Yorkshire

2010-04-21T18:07:00.001+01:00

The Spring is sprung and it is time to welcome all the new life. I took some time out with a friend this morning to visit one of my very favourite places Jervaulx Abbey in Wensleydale. A place of tranquility and calm in our otherwise hectic world, and surrounded by lots of spring babies to make us smile.

How cute are you!

Family bliss

At home we are playing host to numerous nesting birds who are all going hysterical grabbing anything they find to line their nests, pulling all the moss off the roof, digging up my newly planted pots and generally causing mayhem. I will just have to wait a couple of days until they have laid their eggs and are sitting quietly on their nests whilst I remake the garden! A small price to pay to have the joy of watching the fledglings take their first flight in days to come.

Love is in the air

2010-01-31T11:37:00.001Z

it is that time of year again, how time flies! Everywhere you look there are hearts and flowers sprouting all around. So in order that you won't feel left out I have painted some little cuties to raise a smile and share a little love. Hope you like x

'Love is in the air'

'Love Ewe Babe'

Happy New Year

2010-01-06T17:30:00.001Z

So here we are in 2010 and let me wish you all a very Happy New Year! Well what a wonderful white Christmas we had !

I love to see the snow especially with some beautiful bright blue skies. However, it did cause some difficulties, particularly on the roads which were so difficult and icy we couldn't get to Masham to open the gallery on several occasions so apologies to anyone who travelled there expecting to find us open only to be disappointed.

We now have 12 inches of snow in the back garden and are promised more tonight so the adventure continues. Martha and Freddie think it is just great rolling about and chasing snow balls. Luckily I have a cosy heater in the studio that keeps me warm while I work and I have lots of new ideas bouncing around in my head for new paintings so I can't wait to get cracking on those.

Google

2010-01-06T17:15:00.001Z

Google

Looking on the bright side

2009-11-30T15:30:00.001Z

As the rain continues to fall and the river levels continue to rise it is easy to begin to feel rather fed up with our British weather. Dark skies, wet and cold, muddy paws and dripping rain coats everywhere. It isn't so easy to get enthusiastic about walking in this climate, but Mother Nature is a wonderful thing. Just when you are feeling the winter blues approaching she senses we need cheering up and sends us something to brighten our day ! So think again we wouldn't have had this gift without the rain. Did you get one too?

Every day a new inspiration

2009-11-19T09:24:00.001Z

Sometimes the simple things in life are where the inspiration comes from. Just look at this cake asking to become part of my next painting I only went into the shop for a loaf of bread and came out with this little beauty! So here I am at the dining room table with my sketch book and a cup of coffee. Take a look at my gallery in a couple of weeks and see if you can spot where this luscious lovely turns up.

I have finished sketching now and I can tell you it tastes as good as it looks!

CHRISTMAS CARDS AVAILABLE NOW !

2009-10-19T09:12:00.003+01:00

JUST TO LET YOU KNOW MY CHARITY CHRISTMAS CARDS ARE NOW AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE ONLINE. JUST GO TO THE GIFTS PAGE, DOWN TO 'CHRISTMAS' AND THERE THEY ARE !

THANK YOU !

Christmas is coming!!

2009-09-24T08:41:00.002+01:00

I know it is only September still but can you believe it October is only a week away! So I have had to be thinking ahead to allow time for printing etc and have come up with two new designs for my charity Christmas Cards. Once again I shall be supporting the Lewy Body Society and £1.00 from every pack sold will go to the charity. For those of you who are not familiar with Lewy Body Dementia you may be interested to visit their web site www.lewybody.org . So here they are and they will be added to the site shortly. Hope you like :0)

Christmas Capers

Mistletoe Kisses

The message inside is 'Christmas Bleatings'

The little gallery opens it's door

2009-09-20T17:49:00.002+01:00

With fabulous Autumn weather and sun streaming in through the windows I opened the door of my new little gallery for the first time yesterday morning. I was thrilled to see so many happy faces, familiar and new popping in to say hello and everyone had a kind word to say and shared in my excitement.

For those who live too far away to pop in I have taken a few photographs to show you where I will be spending some of my time over the coming months. Of course most of my time will be taken up in the studio creating more paintings to fill the gallery and to send out to the other galleries I supply, but you will understand why I am so pleased with the result of the family's hard work over the past few weeks.

Take a peek.

I am comfortable - honest!

2009-09-13T15:05:00.002+01:00

I just had to share this photo of my daft dog. Martha had her friend Freddy to stay for a bit of a slumber party. He came along with his own bed and overnight bag. After a good long walk and a play in the garden Martha decided it was time for a bit of a snooze, so forgetting she is a Labrador and Freddy is a border terrier thought she would take the pick of the beds, leaving Freddy somewhat bemused, and everyone else amused. She reminded me of Goldilocks trying out all of the 3 bears beds.

My New Little Gallery!

2009-09-08T11:54:00.002+01:00

September 19th is a special day. It is the opening day of my new little gallery in Masham. The family have been working hard to decorate and prepare the shop ready to fill it with 'Sunshine and Smiles'. I am so excited that we will be able to hang lots of my latest originals all under one roof. With so many happy and humorous images filling this lovely little building it is bound to be a happy place to work. I shall be sharing the running of the gallery with friends and family who are all as excited as me about becoming part of the community of Masham. We are still dithering about exactly which days we shall be opening but at the moment it would seem Wednesday through to Saturday and possibly Sunday afternoon. More details soon!

Exploring the Baltic

2009-08-31T18:02:00.001+01:00

I have been so lucky this summer to have had the opportunity to do such a lot of travelling. Visiting places I have never been to before and learning so much about the history and culture of other countries. The weather was disappointing but the company more than made up for that. Travelling by ship give us the chance to spend time getting to know so many lovely, interesting people, to make new friends and to catch up with old ones.

With so many photos to choose from I thought I would share a couple one of which sums up the weather and the other which tickled my sense of humour.

Russian Reflections - another puddle!

Day Trippers - these little beach huts looked as if they were on a day out at the sea side. I love the way they seem to be huddled round having a gossip and their jaunty angles make them look as if they are whispering and giggling.

Rocky Mountain Colours

2009-07-29T20:18:00.001+01:00

We have just got back from two weeks of the most amazing scenery in The Rocky Mountains, and I couldn't wait to share some of the fantastic colours. So inspirational, especially the glacial lakes and blue, blue skies. Although I didn't take my sketch book those aquas and cerulean blues are swimming in my head and I can't wait to paint their liquid beauty.

These photos need no explanation, just enjoy!

Emerald Lake

Moraine Lake

Pyramid lake

Takkakaw Falls

Thanks to my lovely friend Di for sharing her favourite parts of her country, and showing us some awe inspiring sights.

Taking Stock

2009-06-25T10:00:00.001+01:00

This week has been one of many emotions happy and sad, exciting and and fearful, reflective and daring. There has been so much going on in the past few days, final farewells, celebrations of successes, excitement of new opportunities and prospects of travel and reunions. So I have felt the need this morning to take stock of my life. I am so privileged to have so much. Health and happiness, a lovely home and family, many, many friends and perhaps most importantly the ability to appreciate it all, great and small.

So this morning before my usual list of 'Stuff to do' I took a walk around the garden just to think and to give myself time to stand and stare.

I don't care if the neighbours hear me talking to my flowers, they are here for such a short time they should be told how beautiful and uplifting they are. Let me share some of them with you.

Have a lovely day :0)

That's what friends are for

2009-06-18T17:08:00.001+01:00

Occasionally there is a need for cake! Popping round to a friends house for a bit of a chat I thought I would treat us to a little indulgence so I arrived bearing scones, jam and clotted cream. Guess what was waiting there already!

Well its a girl thing isn't it.

We had a lovely hour sitting in the sunshine whilst just above our heads sat a little broody eavesdropper in amongst the wisteria. My friend Jo had watched this pair of wood pigeons trying to build their nest which continually fell apart until they settled for a couple of wobbly twigs. Worried that she would lay her eggs on the twigs where they would almost certainly drop through to the ground Jo set to work with more gathered twigs and her glue gun to build them a more substantial home. Once complete she then had to stand on a chair and lift the daft thing of its own precarious perch, settle the new nest in place and sit the bird back in its new bed. How daft are these birds? she didn't even flap, just accepted Jo's kind intervention. Now she enjoys sitting listening to all the latest news and her partner comes every evening at 7 30 p.m. to take over sitting on the eggs, he is just as happy to sit just inches away from everyone who comes and goes through the door.

Just had to show you this.

More news soon, take care.:0)

The best job in the world

2009-05-30T18:15:00.001+01:00

How lucky am I ! Sunshine, fabulous surroundings, good company and lots and lots of paint !

Tomorrow is the last day of painting in the gardens for a little while and I have had a lovely time meeting so many visitors. People who collect my work, people who are new to my work and people who just share my love of colour and a good giggle. It was especially nice to see children who have watched me work in the past and who have made a special visit to come and say hello again.

I love to talk to children about my work they are so open, interested and honest. Part of a conversation with a little girl who told me she was 5.

'Do you sell your paintings in shops?'

'Yes and those picture shops are called galleries.'

'Aren't you sad when you sell your paintings?'

'Yes sometimes I am sad to see them go but when I know they have gone to a happy new home it makes me feel better'.

'I would be sad to sell my paintings if they were beautiful like yours'.

That is the nicest compliment I could ask for.

I gather we are in for more fine weather tomorrow so I should get this poppy piece finished in the morning.

My Merry Little Mugs

2009-05-21T18:45:00.001+01:00

How are you today? Have you been having the terrible rain and thunder that we have had in Yorkshire. If you have or even if you haven't let me show you the latest exciting addition to my collection that blew my grey clouds away. If you were not able to see them at Sudeley, here they are! My fine bone china mugs.

There are 8 at the moment and we are busy working out how best to display them on my online shop, so it won't be long before you can order them. Each one comes in it's own posh little box and the image wraps right round with a detail down the handle and the title inside the rim. I am so thrilled as I have just been told that the National Trust love them so much they will be stocking them in their shops in the Autumn. When I heard I just had to turn the music up and dance like no one was watching then celebrate with lots of cake! - My one weakness. (My favourite line from Larkrise to Candleford)

Celebrating Sunshine

2009-05-11T10:46:00.001+01:00

It is that time of year again - time to bring out the bunting ! Yippee!

We love to have something to celebrate and today it is the sunshine. I have had a great start to the day, up early, a couple of e mails to old friends and a couple to new ones too. I am so lucky to be able to open my inbox and find the gift of kind words from people who enjoy my work and just want to say hello. Thank you.

So I am going to spend half an hour with my sketch book this morning before I get out my lovely gloopy acrylics. S unshine is inspirational and lifts my spirits allowing happy ideas to skip and dance in my head. I just have to catch them and get them down on paper before they dance right over the garden fence and out of reach.

So here is where I play, come rain or shine and happily today it is the latter.

Have a lovely day!

New Kids In The Flock

2009-05-04T19:56:00.001+01:00

Yesterday we went on one of our favourite walks climbing up from Glasshouses Mill to walk the ridge high above Nidderdale with fantastic views across the dale to Brimham Rocks and on to Gouthwaite and Little Whernside beyond. As we climbed up the hill we were entertained by a gathering of 15 lambs all frolicking around. We leaned over the wall and watched for a good half an hour as they played a series of amusing games, chasing, leaping, bouncing, racing, climbing, rough and tumble whilst their patient mothers stood and raised their eye brows and tutted at their errant offspring's behaviour. Watching the lambs it was easy to see their individual characters in the roles that they played. The confidant, the brave , the clown, the bully, the easily lead and the shy and after their mad half hour they all returned to their mums to suckle and become once again the babies. So much fun and so much inspiration for more sheepy paintings.

A happy time at Sudeley Castle

2009-04-28T12:21:00.001+01:00

Just a quick message to say how much I enjoyed meeting everyone who came to talk to me at The Sudeley Castle Grand Spring Fair. Thank you for all the lovely comments about my work, it is always very motivating to hear how my work makes people smile and makes a difference to your day. How lucky we were with the weather and the views from Cleeve Hill each morning were spectacular. This event was a great opportunity to launch the new fine bone china mugs which were very well received. I shall be adding them to my online shop very soon so you will be able to add to your collection.

Massive thanks to my mate Carole who helped on the stand each day and let me share her lovely home for the duration.

Carole taking a break. We trained together at Cheltenham College of Art her web address is www.carolebury.com

Tiptoe through the tulips

2009-03-25T10:41:00.002Z

Ahh, at last the garden awakes!

I never cease to get excited as soon as the spring flowers bloom, my imagination seems to go into overdrive and I find myself scribbling down ideas on any available bits of paper, old envelopes and newspaper edges. I have a basket in the studio full of sketches on odd scraps, which to some people would look like a waste paper bin, but it is my ideas library. It is just like the bran tub at the school fete, I put my hand in and rummage around and always come out with something to smile about. Last week it was the inspiration for Tiptoe through the tulips. This painting gives me a warm fuzzy feeling, sunshine on your shoulders, the smell of fresh flowers all around and the comfort of a special friend. I hope you like it.

A chilly few days with my sketch book

2009-02-09T12:33:00.002Z

When I was offered the opportunity to take a last minute trip down to Cornwall I jumped at the chance. No worries about the weather, after all there is really no such thing as bad weather it is just a matter of the right clothing. So, equipped with my silk long johns and wooly vest I ventured forth and enjoyed working in my sketch book whilst breathing in the salty air and blowing the cobwebs away.

Thanks to the National Trust who provided this shelter high above Polruan. We stopped here during a super walk which took in two Ferry journeys across to Fowey and back. Sharing the smaller of the two with the postman on his rounds (More inspiration) I called in to say hello at the 'Toe In The Water Gallery' who sell my prints but unfortunately they were closed so I had to make do with a take away hot chocolate - complete with Marshmallows and cream! Well - it would have been rude not to!

Next day we walked the cliff path from Looe to Polperro. What a treat. Visiting this little harbour in the winter when all of the shops are closed and the locals are just getting on with their own business is lovely. Local fishermen were doing repairs on their little boats and cottages snuggled together for warmth, their chimneys puffing away contentedly. We got the bus back to our starting point, Martha loved it.

People often ask me where I got the idea of tipsy houses from, well they exist all around the coast but especially around the Cornish fishing villages and they just ask to be drawn. All I do is perhaps exaggerate them slightly. Take a look at the real thing -

This creek side cottage reminds me when my friend and I played hairdressers when we were seven and I cut her fringe for her. I thought I had done a good job, her mum though otherwise.

Peeping round the corner with a lovely twist to the gable end.

I may be small but I make up for it with my chimney!

Sometimes rows of cottages remind me of school class photographs, rows of children of all sorts of shapes and sizes and each one with their own character.

On to Padstow the next day.

We left our accommodation in thick snow this morning but there was no sign of snow here, in fact in sheltered spots when the sun came out it was warm enough to take my hat off! A favourite walk of ours is up to the war memorial and onwards to Harbour Cove. The views of the Camel estuary are stunning. The weather closed in this afternoon so we set off back towards the south coast just 50 minutes away. That's what I love about Cornwall, you can get to the sea so easily from wherever you are. The North Coast is particularly invigorating on windy winter days with huge waves crashing around Trevose Head. I have made lots of sketches today for a new series of seascapes called 'The Lure Of The Sea'. They will be added to my moods series when they are complete.

The landscape around where we are staying is fascinating. We don't know this area very well so decided to walk and discover, besides I had run out of chocolate and knew there was a little village shop about 3 miles away. The hills are amazing and just like dumplings rising up, round and soft atop of a warming winter stew.

The wooded valleys are hidden gems with streams and green lanes. The tall banks topped with moss are laden with snowdrops, I have never admired snowdrops from underneath before. I have to come back here later in the year to see the colours which must abound and the dappled light which would be reflected in the streams.

We had to leave a day earlier than expected as heavy snow was forecast for the midlands. As it was we got through just before it closed another road. Now we are back and I can't wait to get painting. I have just had a huge delivery of new canvases and paint so the heater is on in the studio, my favourite CDs are lined up and I am itching to get started. watch this space!

Love is in the air

2009-01-30T15:29:00.001Z

Well, January is nearly done and I gather we are in for more wintery weather brrrr! Still, I have been

working on a couple of pieces that should warm the cockles especially with Valentines Day around the corner.

Arthur makes a romantic appearance this time with his lady friend Rosie.

Tug of Love

(detail)

Also on the same theme

Little Love Boat

Reasons to be cheerful

2009-01-17T11:33:00.001Z

Happy New Year to one and all !

Last week I was coughing and spluttering along with many other folk, looking at the grey skies and feeling rather fed up. But, what a difference a day makes!

I thought I must share with you four reasons to feel a big smile returning to my face and suddenly I feel motivated again and ready to get back into the studio and work on a piece called 'Oh what a beautiful morning!'

I hope you are all having the same sunshine as we in Yorkshire are enjoying, although I gather we are in for a rather blustery nig ht!

A splash of sunshine

A warm fire and a good friend

Beautiful Blue Skies

The promise of things to come

Still chilly in Yorkshire

2008-12-17T17:27:00.001Z

Bbrrr.. Just been to fetch the coal in and so glad we have our little stove to sit around on these cold evenings. It has been so cold overnight that some mornings I have found my paint frozen in the studio! But then every day sends more inspiration for another painting.

The determined musician

2008-12-17T17:21:00.001Z

What were you doing at 6 30 am on 4th December? Martyn and I were on our way to Leeds Airport for him to catch a plane to Belfast for a concert when we got stuck in a snow drift in the pitch dark. Being the professional that he is, a bit of snow was not going to stand in his way especially as he had his mum to help carry the instruments! Leaving the car behind we trudged another mile and a half before being picked up by a sympathetic driver in a sturdy vehicle. We finally arrived at the airport to find that all flights had been cancelled and so there we were stuck all day until the snow was cleared and we could get back to out car. So he never got to Belfast but at least we were able to keep warm and got back home safe and sound that evening.

This Years Christmas Cards

2008-11-18T08:45:00.001Z

I thought you would like to see my designs for this years Charity Christmas cards. I am once again supporting The Lewy Body Society and this is a great way to spread awareness of this type of dementia. You can buy packs of 12 cards - 6 of each design for just £4.50 if you visit www.lewybody.org

An Auction for The Darlington Parkinsons Disease Group

2008-10-30T11:19:00.002Z

Earlier this month I was asked by the Darlington Parkinsons Disease support group to do a painting demonstration. I gladly agreed as the group has supported me and my family during my fathers illness. They are a lovely happy group of people including sufferers, carers, Parkinsons nurses and professionals. Apart from education and information the group meet socially enjoying a varied program of talks and demonstrations and also provide regular physiotherapy sessions for their members. Trips out and evenings down the pub all very important and good fun. Many of these things need funding so I have decided to donate the finished painting to their fund raising efforts. I shall be auctioning it on my web site and all proceeds will go to the group. If you would like to make a bid please contact me via e-mail on my contacts page leaving your contact details and the amount you would like to bid. The auction will run until December 6th and the winning bidder will be contacted after that date.

'Never mind the rain' original acrylic on stretched canvas 60 x 60 cm

Friendship, Fun and Fairy Cakes

2008-10-23T16:14:00.001+01:00

I have just got back from a lovely week in Cheltenham where I have been exhibiting with a dear friend Carole Bury. Our two person show was a chance to reunite in the town where we both studied Art. Our work is very different but complimentary in that we both draw from childhood experiences and present day emotions. Carole's thought provoking drawings hung alongside my celebration of all that makes us smile and the response from visitors was uplifting and motivating.

It was such a happy week and an opportunity to catch up with lots of old friends from our college days and eat fairy cakes all day long!

If you are not familiar with Carole's work take a look at her web site www.carolebury.com

Fossil Fish Ring monoprinted and embroidered tissue textiles by Carole Bury www.carolebury.com

On my way to Cheltenham

2008-10-11T10:05:00.001+01:00

This week has been so busy getting last minute things sorted for the Cheltenham exhibition. I am so excited about returning to the place where my Art College days were full of adventure, exploration, fun and hard work. We all shared the same passion for our subject and never once resented the long days spent together in the studios. I have so many happy memories of the various flats I shared, jumble sale wardrobes, my old bike and nights spent in The Cotswold Pub. Next week I will get the opportunity to meet up with lots of friends from that era that I haven't seen for years and meet many more new ones, I can't wait.

Yesterday I picked up a collection of eight pieces from the framers, I never fail to get a thrill when I see my work completed and ready to hang. It is rather like seeing your children dressed up in their first school uniform ready to set off to school on that first day. A mixture of pride and a little bit of separation anxiety knowing that they will be off to their new homes before long. I get very attached to my paintings as you can tell, all my thoughts, energies and emotions are combined in every one of my pieces so I suppose it is understandable.

So after lots of running around, packing and re packing, I felt the need to chill a bit and often the best way is to settle in the studio with some moody music and let the colours sooth me. I often find on these occasions that I am not aware of what I am painting until I look at the finished thing. Funny, it is always water that I return to, that must be my Pisces character talking.

' Velvet Waters' happened yesterday.

In The Pink

2008-09-19T10:18:00.001+01:00

As Autumn approaches the flowers my garden are making on last effort to show off their colours and turn their heads to the sun whenever they have the chance. The bright pink Cosmos are stealing the show this week and have inspired this painting.

Pottering Round The Lakes

2008-09-10T17:30:00.001+01:00

Last weekend as a birthday treat for Alan I hired a little car and we went for a potter from Penrith to The Langdales, Ambleside, Hawkshead and Grizedale Forest. It was such fun even though it rained for a good part of the weekend. A brilliant combination of fantastic scenery, fresh air, walking, great accommodation and most of all a happy, smiley Frog Eyed Sprite which turned heads wherever we went, she was such a character. In fact she was a bit of a show off as she had a tendency to peep her own horn whenever she felt like it which made us laugh as it seemed she had a real sense of humour. We loved her! I can see her featuring in some of my paintings in the future.

We hired her from www.lakesanddales.co.uk and can highly recommend them.

Harlow Carr mixed exhibition

2008-09-04T16:15:00.001+01:00

Well, I have been as busy as ever this summer and I can't believe that the children are already back at school all in their bright shiny new shoes and their smart new uniforms just a tiny bit too big but just the right size to grow into. We have a primary school just at the end of the road, so mornings and afternoons are busy with chatting mums and enthusiastic children so at drop off and pick up time our street is full of young life and bubbling personalities. During the day the atmosphere changes and the pace slows down enough for me to enjoy the to and fro of our more mature neighbours passing the time of day and discussing the weather, it is lovely to have friends that fall into such varied age groups.

I have been producing fewer paintings over the summer holidays as I have enjoyed all manner of distractions. However, I was still able to run the Harlow Carr Summer Exhibition with the help of other artist friends. Such a great opportunity to network with other artists and to meet and talk to so many people who visited the show. With a mixture of technique and subject matter the show had something for all tastes, very inspiring.

Here are a couple of photos which show how we squeezed as many pieces as possible into the study centre.

More lovely views

2008-07-08T19:12:00.000+01:00

Another wonderful walk to finish our holiday. Back to work in a few days time, refreshed and with lots of ideas bobbing about in my head.

This weeks favourite Street name

2008-07-07T19:09:00.000+01:00

Martha and I agreed that this was our favourite street name this week, we stumbled across it in Cerne Abbas.

A Week In Dorset

2008-07-06T18:54:00.000+01:00

We have just got back from a glorious week exploring the cliff paths of Dorset. Martha has had a lovely time, long walks, fresh air and a share of my ice cream cone each day. Fantastic weather! I think we had the best of it - no jumpers all week!

I have to mention the best cream tea of the week goes to The National Trust Tea Rooms at Corfe Castle mmmmm!

2008-06-22T14:04:00.000+01:00

And here is my youngest collector who liked the piece I was working on in the gallery 'The Farmers Pyjamas'

2008-06-20T14:04:00.000+01:00

It was great to me so many people of all ages but who all had one thing in common - a sense of fun.

My Jolly Day at The Art Room

2008-06-18T09:26:00.002+01:00

Last weekend I popped across the water to see Catherine and Nigel in The Art Room Gallery in Dungannon. They had arranged a great opportunity for me to meet some of the people who have bought my work in the past and also to meet some new buyers. I had taken my paints so that I could work and explain what I do and why. I met so many lovely people that I can't wait to go back again and explore more of Northern Ireland. The day was a great success and such fun, there were decorations and bunting, and the prettiest party cakes that just cried out to be painted. Watch this space. So it's thank you to Catherine and Nigel for the invitation and hospitality and thank you to everyone who came to chat to me and especially thank you to those of you who went away with a bit of me tucked under their arm.

My visit to Ireland

2008-06-11T18:59:00.004+01:00

I have been working long days and nights to get a collection of work ready to send the The Art Room Gallery in Dungannon. Northern Ireland. The final parcel was sent yesterday and I have been taking a bit of time out today. Doing one of my favourite local walks with Martha and enjoying the last of the sunshine for the time being. Rain is on its way and the clouds are gathering. Oh well, the garden needs it.

I am really looking forward to my visit to Ireland on Saturday it promises to be a jolly day with colourful decorations and banners advertising the fact that I shall be demonstrating in the gallery. It will be lovely to finally meet some of my collectors and people who share my enjoyment of the quirkier side of life.

Another painting from the garden

2008-06-08T14:04:00.000+01:00

'Sunburst' was painted quickly during a bright interval with the sun boucing off these petals.

2008-06-07T18:56:00.005+01:00

Another day in the garden

2008-06-04T18:44:00.001+01:00

It is so nice to meet up with old friends who have made a special journey to see us and talk about our work, people who have bought paintings in the past either from galleries or from the Summer Exhibition here in the garden. It is also lovely to meet new folk who have enjoyed watching us paint, some are painters themselves and others who would like to take up painting as a hobby. It makes a pleasant change from working on my own in my studio, although when ideas are flowing I do quite enjoy my own company too.
Here is Jane talking to some of the visitors.

Working in the gardens

2008-06-01T16:25:00.003+01:00

Can it really be that long since I added a new blog? I have been busy as usual working in the studio and also in the gardens at RHS Harlow Carr. The weather was very mixed, just as it was last year, one day sun next day rain and the temperatures went up and down like a yoyo. The begining of the week we saw dust storms as the wind blew eddies of dust from the car park. Taking refuge in the summer house we watched as the winds whipped through the garden. It was so nice to work alongside my friend Jane Redfern with whom I shared a studio on a farm until having my latest timber one built. Jane and I have exhibited together for the past 10 years and her watercolours compliment my acrylic work. I shall show you some of her work soon on my blog. Here is one of my acrylic florals painted in the garden.

My Online Shop!

2008-05-16T14:19:00.003+01:00

Hello again, it has been a while since I last left a message. Things have been very hectic, lots of painting and organising printing ready for the launch of my online shop which is now up and running thanks to the hard work of Andy my web designer. He must have nearly been driven to distraction by me changing my mind about this and that but he has been very patient. Please take a look and let me know if you spot any teething problems or hiccups. I'm off down the studio now to do some drawing, I have an idea for a new theme. I will let you in on the idea soon!! Take Care.

2008-04-24T14:04:00.002+01:00

Here is Martha lending a paw and generally being helpful and supportive as usual. She seems to like the first of my 'Little Corkers' and kindly agreed to pose so that you can see the scale of the piece. Martha is the only dog I know who eats dandelions and has been plucking them merrily all along the walk today. The problem is that she is attracted to the yellow sunflowers on this little painting thinking they were dandelions too!

Sunshine and Smiles

2008-04-10T14:23:00.005+01:00

And this is what is inside.

Sunshine and Smiles

2008-04-10T14:23:00.003+01:00

I am very excited as I have just picked up my newly printed cards that are going to be available on my online shop. They are so jolly and bright, I am grinning as I tell you this :0). Now Ali and I have the task of sorting and packaging them , six different designs in a nice little wallet that closes with a weeny velcro fastener. Andy (my web designer) is busy pushing buttons and things so that you will be able to buy prints, cards and other goodies straight from the web site very shortly.

Another collograph

2008-03-15T08:49:00.010Z

And here is another one.

The Outcome

2008-03-15T08:49:00.007Z

As promised here is a photo of the outcome of the collograph demonstration. As well as prints taken the plate can become an art work in its own right.

Messy Play

2008-03-04T10:43:00.002Z

This week I have been enjoying more messy play while preparing to teach a colograph workshop. Any excuse to get my hands dirty- I love it! Basically we have been making collages from which we will be taking prints. This texture paste is ideal for a base ground. I shall let you see the outcomes when they are complete.

Happy Valentines Day!

2008-02-14T16:04:00.004Z

Happy Valentine's day to all! It is a case of love me, love my dog in this house so I thought it appropriate today to upload this photo - 'Martha and the love socks'.

I have had a great week at The Spring Fair catching up with lots of old friends and meeting lots of new ones too. It is so motivating to spend time with like minded people, having a good laugh and networking.

So now I am back home again exhausted but happy, I have decised to take a couple of days off. Long dog walks in the sunshine - just what the doctor ordered!

I hope you are all enjoying the same fantastic weather - take it easy.

The Cherry Pickers

2008-01-20T15:08:00.001Z

Hi again, I have just finished another piece and thought I would give you a peep before it goes to the framers, I am having such fun making the new village fete collection as I introduce new characters along side my sheep and of course I am still enjoying working on my harbours too. Spring Fair is just around the corner now and I am looking forward to revealing the latest of my work at the NEC.

A little bit of sunshine

2008-01-20T15:08:00.000Z

Look what I found in the garden today! A little ray of hope in this awful weather that we are having. I have to say I am getting a little bored with the mud and the rain. Still this little daffodil has give me something to smile about.

Waiting to be varnished

2008-01-09T12:05:00.000Z

Hello again, one of my New Year's Resolutions is to be more organised and post my blogs more regularly! I have just taken a break to wash my brushes and do some admin and thought you might like a peep at some of my new work which I shall be varnishing this afternoon.

I am full of excitement about some new ideas I am discussing with my printer at the moment and will let you know what they are as soon as I have more details. I am also looking forward to seeing the latest collection of greetings cards published by Glebe Cottage Studio which will be displayed on their stand at The Spring Fair next month. All being well you will be able to buy them direct from the web site before long.

:0)

Happy New Year!

2008-01-04T12:05:00.000Z

Happy New Year everyone, I hope you are all feeling as motivated as I am. I love this time of year. It always feels like the lights have turned to green and once the Christmas decorations have been stowed away I can set to work on all the ideas I have been scribbling down on bits of paper over the past couple of weeks. With The Spring Fair coming up fast I am working on a new collection of paintings which I am looking forward to showing you on the site very soon.

It is blowing a gail in Yorkshire today but the sun is shining and I am off now for a brisk walk with Martha.

Take Care

Everyday a magic moment

2007-12-04T16:12:00.000Z

Going down to the studio this evening I looked up and caught my breath. This was todays magic moment. In fact this photo does not do justice to the amazing contrast in colours. I stood and watched the sky until the colours faded like a curtain falling after the show's finale.

Where do the days go?

2007-11-22T10:46:00.000Z

Where do the days go, it only seems like yesterday that I was getting everything ready for The Windsor show and now I realise that was two weeks ago! My feet don't seem to touch the ground these days. Well Windsor was fantastic, I was able to meet lots of new people both buyers and other artists. It is so good to share time with like minded people who support and encourage each other. I always come home with renewed energy and motivation after a show like that.
Last weekend was the annual exhibition of the local group of artists to whom I am their mentor and tutor. The show was a great success- well done all of you!
Now it is time to start to think about work to take to The Spring Fair in February so I kept myself amused on the long jorney back from Windsor by thinking up some new titles for work I have planned. I have added some new open edition prints to my prints page and Glebe Cottage Studio are publishing a new collection of my work to present to the retail trade at the Spring Fair, so it is all very exciting.
Here is one of my latest pieces 'Ewe are the sunshine of my life!'