A new year but it’s as you were as far as my art is concerned. 2017 was a big year for me with a number of firsts. Some good things that came my way include a couple of magazine articles, an open competition award and taking part in Sky Art’s Landscape Artist of the Year. I was also fortunate enough to have by far the most sales and commissions in a year to date. Now I want to keep the momentum going.

It’s my first day back in the office today after the Christmas break and I’m writing this blog on the early, early train into London so I can arrive in time to spend an hour or so painting before work. I’ve got my usual plein air kit with me with the additions of a mirror and light. We have a small library space in my office so I’ll set up there and hope no one comes in for an early morning book loan!

This January I’m focusing on portraiture. I will draw, sketch or paint a portrait or element of one everyday in Jan. Portraits are something I’d like to be better at, especially when painting from life. If I can become better at portraiture it will help my overall painting of all subjects. Working from life with a mirror and sitters, studying anatomy and copying the masters are some of things I’ll do. There’ll be the usual social media posts of my progress – thanks for the support!