Squid.

15 pictures of cute squid

Yes yes please

Some of my projects

I've been guilty of neglecting the art intention of this blog a little, but here I present a few of the things I've been working on. 

 The warm  (averaging 9 degrees or so this week) wet weather here in Scotland this winter has caused fungi to sprout everywhere, which continues to delight and fascinate me. I didn't get the chance to do the macro shots I wanted, but next time, dammit, next time.

 This is my very first attempt with oils - a crude, unplanned sketch on a cheap canvas. I find I like the texture of oil paint and I can see me spending a lot of time with oils in the future. A more serious discussion on oil painting  and the way that I am trying to work is set for an upcoming post.

 The outline for a whimsy in watercolour. I think it's going to be an interesting experiment in simple forms and bright colours, but I can't help the feeling that I've got to go weirder.

A sketch in black coloured pencil that I tossed off on the bus home. For style,  I've been working on more solid lines and clearer, simplified subjects. I don't have the kind of control I want with coloured pencil, as it feels a little strange, but I think I'm slowly learning to use it with a bit more dexterity.

For a wee while I'm going to be focussing on the oils to get a grip on them. I know it's generally regarded as a massively complex technique, that requires at least months of academic education and intense technical study to even approach, but I don't have that. What I do have is paint, brushes, some canvas, some time and a fistful of determination, and dammit, I can work with this!

Anyway, that's probably enough excuses for now...

Belated snow pictures and open commissions

Hi readers!

It's been a few days since my last post but, but now I rectify the situation! I have recovered my camera in just under a week, and am able to now present to you, dear readers, the snow day that was left to us in the West of Scotland after the Hurricane Bawbag; taken at the remarkable Colzium Estate and featuring Cala the dog.

Furthermore, upon completion of my latest commission, I am once again free to take them! This last one was a bit of a slog, and a steep learning curve, but after at least five separate attempts at it, I have done it to my own, and the commissioner's, satisfaction. If you are interested in commissioning your own original artwork from me, then please, by all means visit my website www.hbartgallery.com or email me at hbartgallery AT yahoo DOT co DOT uk. (unusual presentation of this in order to prevent spam.)

Part of the profits of my work are donated to the charity Cala's Biscuits Fund

Pictures of snow below the fold