Autumn Updates from the Shed

It’s been a busy and creative few weeks, so I thought I’d share a little of what I’ve been up to.

Drawing is Free

My Drawing is Free group took a break over the summer, and I really missed it. Thankfully, we started back up a couple of weeks ago. I’ve been going for a few years now, and without boasting, I think I’ve definitely improved. It’s such an enjoyable group and a great way to keep learning and pushing myself.

A Trip to Fortrose

I also headed up to Inverness recently to join the Blackisle Sketchers in Fortrose. We met in the grounds of the beautiful red sandstone ruins of Fortrose Cathedral. Each of us picked a spot and sketched the building from our own perspective. Afterwards, we warmed up with hot chocolate in a local café, chatting about sketching and sharing ideas. It was such a lovely way to spend the day — a small, welcoming group and a great mix of art and conversation.

Back in the Shed

In the shed, I’ve been busy making a new batch of Robin Redbreasts on fork handles. I originally saw the idea on Etsy, but I’ve put my own spin on them — a little more rustic, and very “me.” I’ve made 20 so far. Each robin is a 2D cut-out with a hand-painted red breast, mounted on a custom wooden garden fork handle. I varnished them last night, and the wood grain just popped beautifully.

To finish them off, I’m planning to add little wooden tags, engraved with the phrase “When robins appear, loved ones are near.” They’ll be tied on with garden twine.