Busy Busy Busy!

Well that has been a full on couple of weeks! I started painting two portraits several weeks ago.
The only problem with this is that time melts away, and before you know it 4 hours have passed. This is something which has taken some getting used to as with printmaking you instantly feel you are being prolific. I am pleased with how the paintings are turning out, but having not painted very much, I have SO much to learn....especially knowing when to take a break and when to STOP!

 

'Sugar & Spice' and 'Slugs &Snails' Work in Progress

I have been getting restless and felt that I needed to get printing too, so I  made some new bags to take to the Boutique Chique event run by  http://www.craftersandmakers.co.uk  This was a lovely day in Newport on Tay. Full of friendly and talented makers. I very much look forward to meeting them again!
The bags are now on Folksy along with cards and notebooks. The Pigeon and Heart bags have proved popular and have now sold out so I will need to print some more. If you have a chance, drop into my shop for a wee shufty!

Card Design

I have decided to have some of my gallery work published. The only problem with collagraphs is that the printing plate is not very robust because of the materials used. I like to document my pieces once they are sold. Here is one of my collagraphs that is now on someone's wall. A fantastic company called artistpublishers.com are going to be printing and selling them on my behalf. Here is a sneak preview!

Natty Maid is PAINTING!

I have been asked to participate in an Exhibition at the MacRobert Centre in Stirling this Autumn. I am very excited about this! In wondering what to do, I have decided to do something different....PAINT!
Painting is something I have not done very much of. Even whilst at Art School, I found myself focusing more on printmaking and getting acquainted with software I would be using as an illustrator. I always thought that painting is an area I could work on afterwards. So, I have finally got my easel and brushes out and I am in the process of painting two portraits.  The image here is still very much in the early stages but I feel it is taking shape already. I will post more pics as the image builds.

Early Stages of Portrait

Book Cover Design

I have been working on a book cover design for a very talented poet called James Knox Whittet. Just finished it and fairly pleased with the result. Thought I would post some images of the work in progress.

The lino plate, ready for printing

Inking up

pulling the print

the finished design