Taking a break from polar travels this month (oops, should have been last month!) as projects closer to home have been in need of attention, but Antarctic sketchbooks will resume soon. For those who have been asking when the book about the trip will be published, I’ve made a start on putting diary notes and continue reading »
Occasionally, I get asked to draw things other than boats. With a bit of research, I can tackle most subjects (but I avoid animals, fairies and dragons. I know my limits!) and I often have to draw people, either as cartoons or realistic. My latest book illustration project was certainly a little bit different. It’s continue reading »
It’s nearly time to run away to sea again, working my passage as art tutor on cruise ships – P&O Oceana to begin with. It will be the first time I’ve spent Christmas alone with strangers; I don’t think I mind. It will certainly be different to any Christmas I’ve had before and we’re at continue reading »
When the world seems full of noise and turbulence, anything that is quiet, gentle and creative seems all the more precious. Since last writing, I’ve been to Cornwall for my annual sailing and teaching trip on board Eve of St Mawes (www.classic-sailing.co.uk); I also sailed to Scilly on Eve’s big sister Amelie Rose (http://www.topsail-adventures.co.uk/), where continue reading »
The river comes alive in April and May. Boatyards fill with the smell of fresh paint, boats are launched and spread their wings, owners are heard in pubs saying things that would be unacceptable a few miles inland – ‘Going to get the yard to have a look at my stern gland’ and ‘what are continue reading »