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Isle of Man Nature Journal comes to Studio Umami
As I started the ‘Uncaged’ artist residency at Studio Umami today, I’ve been busy constructing the Isle of Man Nature Journal display. Featuring my artwork from the IOMNJ map and blog, the display contains hanging pieces as well as sketchbooks,…
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Colours of Nature: Swatches from Bramble Blossom
The Island’s brambles are in full bloom at the moment and some are starting to develop the first signs of berries. Blackberry bushes are a difficult and often unsightly plant when they take hold in the garden and yet their…
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Ramsey Hedgerow
Dodging showers has become a well-practised art form this spring and summer. Mark and I took the opportunity to get out for a walk during a dry spell to investigate the wildflowers that are currently blooming in the hedgerows just…
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Cushag: Controversial in Many Ways
It’s Tynwald Day, the National Day of the Isle of Man! Across the Island, celebrations are taking place and people are enjoying the Bank Holiday. Many people wear bollan bane (mugwort) as part of the celebrations but I thought I’d…
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Making Backgrounds that Pop!
One of the most amazing things about colour is the way different hues affect each other. The vibrancy that can be created by having the right colours next to each other is a powerful tool for artists to use when…
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Exploring the Forest Garden
A couple of weeks ago, I was lucky enough to be invited by Pat Kelly to visit her beautiful forest garden for a look around and a sketching session. It was such a delight to explore the many species which…
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The Colours of Nature: Greenish Blue
If someone says greenish blue to me I think of a vivid turquoise, like that found on the back of a kingfisher or the colour of the Mediterranean on a sunny day. The colour given in Nature’s Palette (the book…
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Fuchsias and the Isle of Man
Fuchsias are gorgeous with their striking and colourful blossoms, just coming into flower at this time of the year in all their magenta glory. Originating primarily from Central and South America, these plants have become popular worldwide for their ornamental…
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The Colours of Nature: Blackish Grey
The colour of clouds, heavily laden with rain, ‘Blackish Grey’ isn’t an uplifting colour. Colours such as this, however, are often found in nature and are visually important in providing a neutral backdrop for more vibrant colours. In the book…
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How Do Artists Paint Foliage?
Leaves often take supporting roles in art. They give colour and structure to landscapes and floral works, but are often not depicted in detail or as the focal point of an artwork. There are good reasons for this and the…