FROZEN BRUSHES

After a quiet christmas and now starting to die of boredom I decided to go to the studio and work on the three paintings I started a little while ago. The first image (STOCKINGS -- working title ) I just started to block in the seating, did a little work on the shawl and a lot of work on the face.

On this image, LOTUS --- working title, I once again worked on the face as well as just a little on the flesh of the torso and her right leg.

Here, on image AGAINST THE WALL --- working title, I performed major surgery. The raised, bent, leg has been made in better proportion, lowered (as you can see from the lingering ghost image) and Im far happier with it.

This is just a photo of the collection in my studio space at KNIGHTON LANE, Leicester. It was so cold today that my bristles had frozen and I had to melt them before I could use them ! Thank goodness for the extension lead that allowed me to use one of the electric heaters and thank goodness for the kettle for my numerous cups of coffee to keep me going. Once again, I was the only person in the studios. Im not complaining as I rather like it. Dont feel I have to make conversation, just do what I want. Paint, draw, sculpt, read, drink, listen to radio, look out of the window, whatever.........anything. Its my little piece of heaven.

I think I am almost well again now. I dont think I will ever be the way I was, and why would I want to be? The changes that are happening around the world, both physical and spiritual, are to be embraced but, as I found, it can be very stressful and even painful. I have come through that door and am now looking forward to 2009.

Had a lovely surprise phone call from CHARLES WALKER-HAZZARD a sculptor I worked with and for a few years ago and he said some really nice things so thanks for that Charles. If you got to his website you will see some stunning work. I also had a card from MARRIANE HUMPHREYS who I met many years ago at LUSAD and who sends me a card every christmas. We havent spoken in several years, but still she remembers me. Thats what Yuletide is all about, isnt it? I think so.

If you have sent me a text, email or even a snailmail card for Yuletide I thank you very much and apologise if I have forgotten you somehow..........its been quite a stressful last couple of months, so I know you will forgive me. And a special thankyou to the lady who often times uses my taxi and who told me she is praying for me.

Thankyou all for being in my life.

Happy New Year to everyone !!

and remember, Love all, hurt none, its the only religion you need.