For three weeks in June I was very fortunate to have a residency in an old-world apartment across the road from the St Kilda foreshore.  Inspired by my friend and artist Ann Holt, I set myself the creative task of capturing something of the scene on each day I was there.  The sky and beach are dynamic, ever changing.   I had to relax and knowing that I could only capture a fleeting moment, work fast.

When I go off on my painting expeditions, I often take a few favourite art books to remind me not to get too caught up with detail, and focus on being present in the space to capture something of the air, the wind, the light, squawking birds, moving clouds and stray insects in my drawing and paintings.  One favourite books is A SHETLAND NOTEBOOK, a replica of Norman Ackroyd’s sketchbook of the tempestuous weather, and land and seascape of this isolated island.

St Kilda is not Shetland, of course, but it was named after another far flung Scottish isle, so there is a bit of a connection.  Whereas the area around the foreshore is inner city, lively and urban; the weather, the clouds, the sea all have their own rhythm.   It was wonderful to observe.

Deep appreciation to Ann Holt for the opportunity.