Crags on Arkle

Crags on Arkle

Watercolour

25 x 18 cm

This is a small watercolour of some crags on Arkle, a mountain in North-west Sutherland. I was pleased with cliffs and the feeling of recession, but the top half of the painting felt a bit empty. I thought that an eagle, soaring on the updraughts in the background, might give it a bit of life and a sense of scale. It's amazing how a simple brushstroke can transform a painting sometimes.

Abandoned Farmstead

Abandoned Farmstead

Watercolour

25 x 36 cm

I love painting these abandoned farmsteads. They usually make a good focal point in an empty landscape. This one isn't too decayed yet and is still weatherproof. I think it's used as an overnight shelter sometimes, probably by fishermen.

Heroes of the Grey Corries

Heroes of the Grey Corries

Watercolour

25 x 36 cm

This is the Commando Memorial at Spean Bridge. The British Commandos were formed during World War II to take part in raids against occupied Europe. They had their depot at Achnacarry Castle, where they went through tough training in the surrounding mountains. Later, they were joined by US Rangers and commandos from other countries. The famous monument was set up in 1952.

In the Corrie of the Snow

In the Corrie of the Snow

Watercolour

25 x 36 cm

When I first visited Coire an t-Sneachda, in the Cairngorms, it was October and already there was a covering of snow. The cloud level was low and the surrounding cliffs disappeared upwards into the mist, making them seem even more dramatic. The floor of the corrie was covered with scattered boulders that had fallen from the crags above. The scene was desolate, but there was also a peacefulness in the complete silence. I hope I have managed to convey some of that feeling in the painting.

Spear Head, Scrabster

Spear Head, Scrabster

Watercolour

18 x 25 cm

More of the wonderful coastal scenery of Caithness. This is just a short distance north of the ferry port of Scrabster, but it could be miles from any human habitation. There are just dramatic cliffs, rock stacks and sea caves, and the ever-present seabirds gliding by effortlessly on the thermal up-currents.