From My Camera Roll (Patreon)

Hi everyone, I hope you've had a good week. We had a slightly fraught one, responding to the new PPWR rules that (for the timebeing) prevent us from shipping goods to the EU. I am watching this closely and will share updates if i get any. But onto more creative things...and make sure you read to the end for a surprise!

Teasing the Autumn Treasures

Later today you're going to get your first long form autumnal painting from my 'tiny autumn treasures' series. It's just like the mini flowers: quick versions on social media and then long form on here (Daisy tier and above). You will get all the info on the paper size and grid size (same as last time). It's a lovely way to help us complete a small painting. The first half brings us up to Halloween where we will momentarily pause for the Practical Magic painting challenge and then we will fill the remainder in in November as we build up to Advent. You will finish with one completed page of lovely autumn illustrations. How fun!

Some fun Christmas kits

This year I'm looking at some fun new products for Christmas. I know that some of you enjoy using a line drawing guide and I'm aware that there are plenty of friends and family that might fancy getting creative but dont know where to start. So, I'm working on a paint your own christmas cards kit that features three festive designs (these are two of them) that you get as line drawings on folded cards that can be painted however you wish. The kit will include brushes and paints and a helpful starter guide so anyone can have a go. I'd love to hear your thoughts, is there anything I've missed to go in the kit?

Cats at Christmas

A few years ago I did a cats on a christmas tree youtube tutorial. It was really popular and TJ Maxx even bought the artwork to put on some homewares. I've always thought it was a great topic for some more paintings and I'm sat here working on a few christmas card designs for a new range this year!

Embracing the season

Crumble and I have spent the last two weeks feeling very cosy in the evenings as we sit on the sofas and listen to the radio commentary of the US Open tennis. I decided not to pay to get it on TV as so much happens over night for us. But there has been something really magical just sitting and listening for hours, not distracted by screens or visuals...the ultimate audio drama of live sport! I caught Crumble snoozing through a particularly exciting match!

Blossom, whatever time of year!

I had such a nice time painting some blossom trees for a wedding stationery commission the other day. It feels odd to paint it in September - especially when I'm so seasonal with my work, but it's a reminder to paint whatever makes you happy, whatever time of the year!

A big clue!

On Tuesday we are painting this lovely little Tuscan hill scene on Youtube. On Thursday, I'm giving you the opportunity to experience the real thing! This is a sneaky note to say I am launching one last retreat for 2027 and it's in Tuscany (25th Sept - 2nd Oct 2027) doing an introduction to painting buildings, architectural details, windows, plant pots and simple landscapes! Patrons will hear first on Wednesday and then we open it up to the public on Thursday!!! Make a note in your diaries!