Blog Archive

Pencils, pilot cutters and apologies to Pete Seeger

Hooray, the date has been set for my favourite commission of the summer, guest tutor for the Classic Sailing Art Cruise. The boat: Eve of St Mawes, built on the lines of a traditional pilot cutter and a treat to the eye. She sails rather well, too. The setting: South Cornwall, Falmouth harbour and the continue reading »


Growing old disgracefully

Hooray….. after extensive research, experts have reached the conclusion that the age we are most likely to feel content and fulfilled with our lives is 58. This challenges all the values our world holds dear: that youth is everything, that women over 50 become invisible and no longer valued, that ageing is to be feared. continue reading »


Drawing at the edge of the world

This month brings more pilot cutter sailing and a few arty notes on the usefulness of horizon lines…..   My idea of a perfect moment is sitting on a traditional boat, preferably in the sunshine, with a glass of wine in one hand and a pencil in the other. My idea of a perfect job continue reading »


Sketching at sea – wobbly waves and sharp pencils

One of the best things about sailing in company with other boats – apart from the parties, of course –  is the opportunity to photograph and sketch them close up. Sketching from a small sailing boat can be frustrating, not just because you are rolling around too much to draw, or getting in the helmsman’s continue reading »


Bowlines before breakfast

My conversation with the signalman who answered the phone from the railway crossing was surreal – but it was late at night and he was probably bored. Me: Is it clear to take a car across? Him: Are there any animals involved? Me: That’s no way to talk about my friends! Him: Aren’t you the continue reading »