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September thoughts

As the September light begins to fade I feel there’s always a rush to finish off projects before we’re hit with the light closing down on us. I’m never quite ready for it. Don’t get me wrong I love Autumn, it’s a beautiful season, but I do find it difficult to adjust. I’m suddenly more of a morning person up early, making the most of the day.

October

It has been an exciting month. TOAST had asked me to take a sketching workshop as part of their 3 day residency at the Crafts Council gallery in London. A challenge indeed, as last Saturday for the first time I demonstrated drawing techniques for people attending in-person as well as being filmed for people participating online. A huge task for my brain to take on board, as I was trying to think of 2 audiences at the same time. Pleased to say at the end of the workshop, a sense of relief and achievement took over as I looked at all the finished artwork, which for a 2 hour workshop was pretty impressive, it really touched me.
A big thank you to @toast @craftscouncil staff for being so supportive throughout, it was a joy to work with you @fridakim_london for her beautiful autumnal floral installation which we took inspiration from and of course to everyone who chose to spend their time with me, I really appreciate it.

I’m planning to hold more workshops in the coming months. To find out more and to keep up to date with other Obiko news please sign up to the newsletter below.

Christmas card packs will be in the online store from next month, I’ll also be uploading new artwork.

With November nearly upon us and the clocks going back this evening, I’m ready to hunker down for winter, saying that I was ready in September!

Until next time, Keep snug and well.

 

A late post for August, because I forgot it was a Bank Holiday here in the UK and planned to post at the end of the month, but found myself down the coast on a little break in Brighton.

Last days of summer are upon us, I measure the good summers by the times I’ve been swimming in the sea and this year sadly it hasn’t been many. I’ve managed plenty of beach walks though, this is rarely determined by the weather, as the sea and beach are always a welcome break from my work. The ever changing scenery and sounds of the waves is a natural de-stresser and for that I’m forever grateful.

Painting has been big on the agenda this month, mostly painting for myself which I’ve loved, with a few making it into the online shop. I always find August an odd month, gearing up for the festive season while so many people are taking their summer holidays. The Christmas cards are beginning to take shape and soon will be ready for the printers. I might even make a few hand-made ones like I did last year.

All in all August has been a satisfying month for my creative output, lots produced, which I can’t wait to show you in the coming months. It’s a good feeling knowing I’ve banked up some work.

This month I’ve also added a workshop title to the top bar of my website. Over the years I have enjoyed taking creative workshops and recently I’ve been asked by TOAST to facilitate one called Sketching Foliage & Flowers on Saturday 23rd October 3-5pm at the Crafts Council Gallery in London. This is open to all levels and the inspiration for the sketches will be taken from an autumnal floral installation by renowned florist, Frida Kim. Join me for a fun, relaxed session in a great space,  where we’ll produce some notecards. For more information and tickets in-person and online please click here.

Until later this month, keep well