There’s nothing like the smell of the sea air, the breaking waves, the seagulls overhead, and the expanse of the ocean, in this case the North Sea.
I had been asked to collaborate with Jo Malone London, Harrogate store for the launch of their new perfume, Sea Salt and Bergamot inspired by the British coastline. My brief was to hand paint boxes, for which I created a wave, and exhibit my artwork.
This spurred me on to go to the North Yorkshire coast to paint for three days.
First stop Runswick Bay which is a small village often voted one of the prettiest villages in England. I found a cute cottage to stay in.
With my canvas I ventured along the beach and set up my painting table looking towards the village and cliff. I watched families gathering, children with buckets and spades, dogs, all having fun, swimming, playing games and relaxing. It reminded me of our family holidays on the beach in Filey. Time stood still for me! I had lots of conversations with people about art as I painted away which adds to the experience of painting outside.
Next, I have always wanted to paint the iconic thatched cottage which sits on the furthest point out of the village, so with my 30 cm square canvas I sat on some rocks and painted the vista and added the wild flowers in the foreground. Grains of sand settled on the sky of the canvas from the tractor pulling fishing boats to and from the water.
Another well known seaside destination a few miles from Runswick Bay. I arrived at the beach at 8am at low tide with the sun creating a soft shimmer on the water. I practically had the beach to myself at this time. I turned right to create a small 20cm x 20cm painting featuring Whitby Abbey in the distance. I painted the view in front with the pale blue sea melting into the blue sky. Finally I looked to the left and painted the headland.
Finishing off the paintings in the studio, I reflected on what an enjoyable time it had been and how lucky I am to do something I love! My next seaside adventure will be to paint Robin Hoods Bay, Whitby and Scarborough.
I was approached to collaborate with Jo Malone London Harrogate to celebrate the launch of a beautiful new fragrance inspired by the British coastline called "Sea Salt and Bergamot". They wanted a local artist who could hand paint limited edition presentation boxes
I was asked to create a special painting for the prestigious annual Berry’s Tennis Event by Martin Wicks, owner of Hazlewood Castle. This is a magnificent 12th-century castle hotel set in spectacular surroundings near York. As the Artist-in-Residence here, I have many
paintings displayed throughout the castle.
Spring presents the most amazing spectacle and in a short window early May, the Cherry Blossoms burst forth followed by the Bluebells and sometimes at the same time. I love being outside in the elements capturing these sights.
Peter Bowerman
Author