Demo 10: plein air and inkiness

Filming a session in sub zero temperatures up on the Welsh border is all "part of the service" here at Kitchen Table Creatives.

On such a stunning day, I couldn’t let the opportunity go by so I packed up an artist’s rucksack with ink, a graphite stick and charcoal and a a couple of brushes. Working into my trusty A5 sketchbook I made a couple of loose expressive landscape sketches before heading off to take in a “kite’s-eye” view of Llanthony priory in the vale of Ewyas, Monmouthshire.

Oh and I lugged my awkward tripod and a wooden board as a base up the mountain too. Crazy huh? Over 8 miles covered, and it was an absolute pleasure to be out there, walking and sketching.

I hope you enjoy sharing the experience and feel a little bit inspired to get outside, however wintry, to have a go yourself.

Chilly and sublime

The exciting thing about sketching outside is the immediacy. It encourages a freedom and seems like you get a direct line to your own style.

This session includes a 14-minute demo about using brush and ink, along with a little bleach. As a bonus, I explore my brief research into Japanese brush and ink painting known as sumi-e, which is also about immediacy and bold decisiveness when it comes to mark making, along with discipline and skills that are humbling.

Finally, I tell you about JMW Turner’s visit to this area and his painting and etching of the priory.

Welcome to my new KTC members. Thank you for making the most of KTC: it’s so great to have you on board. Please do share with your friends if you think they’d benefit from the community here.

You can enjoy KTC “essay” posts for free. I only ask you to become a paid subscriber (£10 a month) to receive these fortnightly demos packed with ideas… Thanks so much; I love it that we’re making a community here!