Paints are packed. Artwork is off the wall. The studio is calm and quiet. No more talking heads.
I arrived wide-eyed and leave satisfied.
I look two walks today with sketchbook in hand - in search of one more composition. October’s chill has intensified the colors - richer than when I arrived three weeks ago - ochres and red rusts dotted with with dark green gorse. It’s lovely.
The best way to sum up this residency is through images . Below are two sketches - my first and my last. Do I need to say more?
I am also leaving with many gifts:
The generosity of the Cove Park staff, fellowship with young creative artists/ thinkers; the kindness of the Scottish people; memories of walking this beautiful countryside; a hot water bottle and two pint glasses.
I would like to give a shout out to my Blundstone boots for getting me over the hills and through mud puddles; the BT internet for always being there (at home, I have to stand on my head and blink three times to get reception); artists Frank Auerbach and Philip Guston for their guidance and The Sprock Foundation for funding my residency. (I don’t know much about Trust babies but I am delighted to be a Boyfriend baby)
And you - for being my companion on this adventure. Thank you.
Evening walk back to Cove Park.