Christmas? Already?

 Hello again, long time no type. Well, I have been busy, so it's not because I can't be bothered :) I've recently been doing all sorts of malarky, and I'm trying to remember what to tell you as I write this. Let's see. 

I've recently been part of a group exhibition near Lumsden, which was lovely. No Red Dots but it's always good to get your name noticed. I have also been taking part in a number of Craft Fairs, which are great fun, and better in some ways than an exhibition. You get to see someones reaction right away. Food for the soul! I have also been working on some new paintings which take me to new subjects. This was daunting at first, especially with the painting you see above. The snow was very intimidating until I began to tackle it. 

Autumnfall. 

I've also painted a still life, which in some ways was a revisiting of an earlier painting I'd done for my wife in 2003. This was of an autumn leaf on a burnished russet colour background. The latest painting has increased the detail, albeit at a 12th of the original paintings size. 

I have also begun to stock up on derivative products, in readiness for the Christmas season, and my various upcoming Craft Events. This includes a batch of new designs for my cards, as well as a new range of coasters and place-mats. These are made down in Cupar Angus by a lovely couple. They produce a very high quality product, including a lovely wee box too. Seeing my artwork in this form is such a thrill. I have also stocked up on some larger format stretched canvas prints, and will be showing them at the events I'm attending. If you're reading this, and you live reasonably local to me, I am happy to have you contact me to arrange a viewing. I'd love an excuse to share some coffee and have a blether. 

Incidentally, I've enabled Comments in the Blog area, so I would love to hear from you. What would you love to see me paint next? Should I make a video of a painting from start to finish? Or have you a question for me? Let me know below, and I promise I'll not leave this as long next time. 

Hello again. While organising my current exhibition, I received a rather exciting email from Vida.com, inviting me to collaborate with them in creating a Collection based around my work. It's been great seeing how my paintings transform the garments, and how the emotion of a work carries through to the new format. It has really changed how I see my paintings, and allows me to open up my work to a larger audience that I may otherwise have missed. 

One of the defining characteristics of Vida is how they work ethically with their Makers, giving them the access to education they may otherwise have been without. This empowerment and respect is a far cry from the stories you hear about many other clothing manufacturers who's main concern is low cost labour. 

I've already generated a lot of interest, and made some sales, so it's very encouraging. Click the picture above to have a look for yourself, as there's pieces for men and women.