I decided, after a long summer break enjoying time with my New Zealand family here in Edinburgh, that I would embark on an exciting year long Professional Development course.
So, I've just completed 'week three' at Paintbox School of Art in Cockenzie. I love the setting, it's in the lovely 17th century mansion house which was occupied by the Cadell family. Across the road there's a tiny beach that has lots of wonderful sea-glass, and further along is Port Seton harbour. It's perfect for a lunchtime stroll to stretch the legs. The gardens surrounding the house are just as lovely with orchards a large pond and allotments.
I was so excited to receive the timetable for the first term - it looks really interesting with colour mixing and palettes, Artist's book making and a trip to the wonderful Burrell Collection in Glasgow. There will also be the 'nitty-gritty' that comes with artist life, like admin and product listing, but I'm sure it will be just as enjoyable as the tearing up of our work to make new work, as was week two - we shall see!
My work has taken a different turn of late. Its still semi-abstract and very fluid, however I'm moving towards a cleaner composition, with large 'block' areas of colour. this change has come from a small metal sculpture that I recently inherited from my late Uncle. He was an artist, and he made it early on in his career in the 1970's. It consists of small blocks (about Oxo size) which have been placed and welded together at different angles. I decided to sketch it, and since then I've noticed the blockiness appearing in my work.
I'm excited as to where all of these new starts will lead as the year progresses.
The other great thing about Cockenzie House is that it has a new cafe with the most delicious yummy soup and scones!
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