When my hours open in the shop drop after October half term I can make use of the sunny winter days to get out in the landscape and sketch.

  

Sketching on location means visiting well known local spots as well as finding new views around this beautiful county.

Working in the elements can mean making quick sketches and notes before running for cover, but capturing a little information can help recreate the feeling of a place once back in the studio. I try to get some movement and spontaneity in the sketch such as light or wind direction, nothing perfect or contrived.

Most of my work features my local part of the coast between Putsborough and Mortehoe in north Devon but it's lovely to get out and about a bit further afield maybe some of these will also become finished works in the studio one day!

 

Dartmoor National Park 

 

Dartmoor, with it's wide ranging views, craggy tors and ancient woods has enough sketchbook inspiring views for a lifetime, every direction is a picture waiting to be captured.

The ancient woods with moss covered rocks and oaks nestled in the folds of the moor are possibly my favourite places and couldn't be more different than my usual coastal views but there's the challenge!