Affordable Art

Charity Fundraising

2009-10-19T12:44:00.003+01:00

I have recently participated in a Charity Auction to raise funds for Great Ormond Street Childrens Hospital. This is one of my watercolour paintings that I donated, and a flurry of bidding activity towards the end resulted in nearly £820 being raised. My thanks are due to the generous bidders in support of this worthy cause.

I now need to buckle down and start painting ready for next years round of exhibitions. I also undertake commissions, so if you may be interested just give me a shout. No obligation or high pressure selling.

Competition win

2009-10-10T13:11:00.003+01:00

In addition to my artwork I also take a lot of photographs, apart from providing source material for my paintings they are pleasant images in their own right. I submitted a few for the Wildlife Trust photographic competition, and one of my images won the Reserves category and also came 3rd overall.

Depicting Brent Geese coming in for a landing it means I shall be off to the prize presentation next week.

A New Miniature painting

2009-09-19T11:58:00.002+01:00

I've just completed this miniature watercolour painting which will be one of my entries in a forthcoming exhibition. Life has been busy hence the lack of regular updates to this blog, something I hope to rectify shortly.

More paintings sold

2009-08-14T12:18:00.002+01:00

Well since my last post when I mentioned the sale of a railway painting to the USA, I have sold three further paintings two acrylics and a watercolour at the 100th Anniversary Exhibition of the Portsmouth and Hampshire Art Society. I've also been busy photographing the abundant butterflies that seem to be around this year.

This is one of the paintings sold.

This is one of the butterflies, a Brimstone.

I need to update my website where of course you can find more of my paintings.

Another Seascape

2009-07-05T12:48:00.003+01:00

This painting has been languishing on my board since it was initially stated as a demonstration piece at a local Art Society. I have now got round to finishing it, more in desperation ready for the exhibition. I have a purchaser for onbe of my railway paintings and that was going to be shown. Additionally I seem to have lost another painting, I can't find it anywhere, and have no record of it being sold, so it is a complete mystery. Absent minded artist seeks inspiration!

A new acrylic seascape painting

2009-06-05T17:18:00.004+01:00

Well it's been a busy few weeks and sad to say I have rather neglected my posts on here. To atone for my failure in this respect, this is the latest acrylic seascape painting that I have just finished. I shall probably exhibit this in my main Summer exhibition at the beginning of August.

Another watercolour painting sold

2009-04-11T11:21:00.002+01:00

I had a successful sale at another exhibition a few days ago, a beach scene.

I need to get down to finishing some new work ready for the summer exhibition, which I suspect will arrive with undue haste, what I want to know is where does all my time dissapear, answers on a postcard please.

Two more paintings sold

2009-03-22T19:10:00.001Z

I sold two original paintings this week, more can be seen on my website, which reminds me I must do some updating there. The weather has been excellent this week as well, so as my wife dissapeared out on a ladies day yesterday I took the opportunity to visit a local Nature Reserve to take some wildlife photographs. This little Egret was doing a spot of fishing in one of the smaller stretches of water.

Ducks Landing

2009-03-09T16:33:00.002Z

From one of the photographs from my trip to the Nature Reserve I created this acrylic painting, I was standing waiting for my wife who was in the shop, now there's a suprise! and these three ducks came in to land, so managed to grab a quick photograph, which has resulted in this painting. A reversal really of the ubiquitous ducks flying up the wall which seemed to be the de riguer domestic decor in the 1950's

Birds and Railway Engines

2009-02-21T12:08:00.004Z

Since delivering my last painting I met the recipients at a wedding and they were thrilled at the painting of their cottage. Always nice to get feedback on ones efforts. Despite the recession I took the plunge and bought a new telephoto lens for my camera a couple of weeks ago. An ultra zoom it enables some great opportunities for birds. I captured these Gadwalls at a local nature reserve on a very cold day.

This morning the preserved steam locomotive Tangmere was passing nearby so took the opportunity to get a photograph as she crossed the railway viaduct on her way to Fareham.

Deep and Crisp and even

2009-02-06T15:33:00.003Z

Well the UK weather has been a little extreme this last week with unprecedented levels of snowfall that has placed everywhere in chaos. The Government seem incapable of organising things, I'm sure all that hot air could have helped solve some problems!

It did give me the opportunity to get some photographs, these are of Portchester Castle an original building project of the Romans with extensions by the later Norman occupants, bet they didn't ask for planning permission.

A bit cold for painting outside, I guess the water would freeze any way so watercolours would be a non starter.

A Cottage painting commission

2009-01-30T17:00:00.002Z

My first ever commission was a cottage for someone's daughter and over the years I have been asked to paint several peoples houses, not the Dulux dog thing you understand. Well history seems to be repeating itself again and I've just delivered my latest commission of a cottage that has been undergoing refurbishment.

If you would like to consider a commissioned painting,not neccessarily a house or cottage, just contact me through my website www.artyman.co.uk an enquiry will cost you nothing and there is no obligation so whatever your request just ask.

The next Stephen Spielberg

2009-01-15T12:14:00.005Z

I've been playing with Windows Movie Maker and created a short video of a selection of some of my photographs, which I sell on Ebid which is a great site if you are looking for bargains as well. Although most people automatically think of eBay when buying online, there are alternatives and usually a lot friendlier with active communities which help keep the scammers at bay.

Whether I shall forge a new career as a movie producer I doubt it, anyway take a look and let me know what you think. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iStRMtzRmE0 Well enough playing I have a new commissioned painting to get on with so time to get my brushes wet.

A Happy New Year

2009-01-02T13:07:00.002Z

A Happy New Year to you all, well not suprisingly I didn't get any painting done over the festive period, and I trust you all enjoyed yourselves as well. I am now geared up to attack 2009 with some vigour, well that's the plan anyway. I was pleased that my recent sales arrived in time for Christmas, and someone is now the proud owner of this acrylic painting.

The Christmas Rush

2008-12-15T11:44:00.002Z

I expect like most people this is the time of year when there seems to be so much to do and so little time. I've been busy packing and shipping various things for the monthly charity auction that is held on eBid I've also just shipped this print to a buyer in the USA.

To avoid the crush at the shops I'm waiting for a couple of items in the post, buying online can save a lot of legwork. Whether I shall get much painting done over the festive period may probably be proportional to the amount of food and drink consumed, but I must be a disciplined artist.... yeah right!

May I wish all my readers, customers, past present and future, a Joyful Christmas and Happy New year.

Good News

2008-12-05T16:30:00.002Z

I had my post operation trip to the hospital today, for the result of the biopsy of the growth that was removed from my hand. It was a "Bowenoid Keratosis", which sounds impressive, but then it could be a plant name, what do I know!! The Good news is that is was not malignant and so have the all clear, the downside is that I am now back on washing up duties.

Tomorrow the Gresley A4 Pacific steam locomotive 'Bittern' will be passing nearby railway line on a steam speacial trip, so I shall be out early tomorrow with my camera to try and get some shots.

A hospital trip and a new painting

2008-11-21T17:27:00.003Z

Following a visit to my doctor I was referred to the local hospital for the removal of a skin cancer. Unfortunately this was on my brush hand so a partially completed painting had to wait until a couple of days ago before it could be resumed. As with most things there is always a plus side and it has excused me from dishwashing duties for the time being.

This is the painting, of a Great Western Railway pannier tank locomotive running alongside the River Dart in Devon. This is from a photograph I took of the scene about twenty years ago.

I have the stitches removed from my hand next Thursday,and I'm hoping they will finish in time for me to go and photograph a Gresley A4 Pacific locomotive that will be running a steam special that day.

Majestic Power

2008-11-10T10:29:00.002Z

Following on from my trips to photograph preserved steam locomotives, I've just completed this painting of the "Duchess of Sutherland" one of Sir William Staniers most pwerful locomotive designs. Shown here in her old LMS livery of crimson and looking magnificent.

I have a hospital trip scheduled for later this week for a minor operation on my hand, so I don't expect I shall be painting for a bit, have to see how it goes I guess.

Train chasing again

2008-10-26T16:12:00.004Z

I have been chasing trains again! When trying to obtain reference information for paintings you have to grab the opportunities when they present themselves. A coupl of weeks back I had a jaunt up to Oxfordshire to photograph the last survivor of the old Southern Railway King Arthur class locomotives 'Sir Lamiel' arriving a little late at one of my chosen locations she was just pulling away so only had the chance for a couple of grabbed shots.

The next was a little closer to home so I had more time, and despite the sun not fully co-operating by staying out these are a couple of the Bulleid Merchant Navy Class "Clan Line" running a Pullman special excursion from London to Southampton E Docks.

She is shown here having just pulled out of Eastleigh, her birthplace 48 years ago.

Here she is arriving in Southampton Docks having just crossed an ungated public road, a rare occurence these days.

I hope to commit this magnificient engine to paint shortly, so what this space, in the meantime you can see a couple of my other railway paintings on my website www.artyman.co.uk

A short holiday

2008-09-30T14:12:00.003+01:00

After a rather dismal summer I managed to find a few days sunshine and took the opportunity to grab a short holiday on the Isle of Wight. Whilst not baking temperatures it was sunny and very pleasant with some stunning scenery near where we were staying. I have plenty of photographs, and perhaps the only slight dissappointment was that there were no old Southern Railway locomotives when we visited the Isle of Wight Steam Railway at Havenstreet. They did have a fine collection of vintage carriages though, so not all was lost and they will prove useful reference for future paintings.

These are a few of the photo's that I took showing some of the magnificent views from St Catherines Down and further west along the coast toward Freshwater.

Since returning home I have sold three paintings at exhibition and now need to settle down to some serious work over the coming months to complete a commission and prepare for next years round of exhibitions.

Photographic expeditions

2008-09-14T16:33:00.002+01:00

I've been out on a few photographic expeditions, gaining reference photographs for some of my future paintings. First was a trip to the Bluebell Railway in Sussex which I have not visited for many years. Had a pleasant day there with plenty to photograph and followed this with a quick visit to the nearby Sheffield Park gardens, which kept the wife happy :)

This was one of the shots of a U class Southern Railway locomotive. To see more of my train photographs just click the picture

The next was a BR "Britannia" class locomotive which was on a steam special run passing through Whitchurch, on it's way from London to Bath and Bristol, I thought I was going to miss it, having got slightly lost whilst looking for a good location to shoot from and ended up driving a lot further than anticipated, but made it in time.

And Yesterday the last ocean going Paddle Steamer "Waverley" was captured as she entered Portsmouth harbour, in some rare sunshine amongst all the rain we have been having.

I hope to utilise all these into paintings in due course, in the meantime why not check out my website www.artyman.co.uk to see what other delights are available.

Olympic Glory

2008-09-05T17:43:00.005+01:00

Having now recovered from getting up early in the morning to watch the sailing from the Beijing Olympics, I've painted this watercolour in celebration of Ben Ainslie winning his third Olympic Gold medal. After his initial battle with Robert Schidt in the Lasers when he won silver, he moved on to the Finn class, vacated by British Gold Medallist Ian Percy, who also won Gold in the Star class this year. He has dominated the class since then and emphasises what an incredible sailor he is. Having previously been a National sailing champion myself, I know the dedication required to compete at this level.

A busy week

2008-08-29T22:43:00.005+01:00

Well it's been a busy couple of weeks, trying to shake off a rather persistent cough made setting up for an exhibition over the Bank Holiday weekend rather hard going. However it was successful with three sales, and followed up this week with a succesful day out to obtain some photographs of a steam locomotive 'Duchess of Sutherland'. It was quite fun chasing it theough the Oxfordshire countryside and trying to obtain a suitable viewpoint, so hopefully the results will feature in a future painting. The rest of the day was spent visiting Buscot Park an old stately home that is the location of four famous Rose series paintings by Edward Burne Jones.

This is one of the train photographs

A Jack Russell commissioned painting

2008-08-07T13:57:00.002+01:00

Had some good news on Tuesday I have sold two of my paintings from the Summer Exhibition, have been busy this week working on a commission, a totally new subject for me so quite a challenge. When I emailed the image to the client, she said it made her cry, so it sounds like I've managed to capture the character of her much loved pet.

A new venture

2008-07-24T11:57:00.004+01:00

It's been a little strange this week, not really sure where all the time has dissappeared, some of it has been spent creating my first video for YouTube which can be seen here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBxaIvNnCII Trying to find some music of the correct length took some searching.

Setting up the exhibition this afternoon. If you fancy a personal visit to see my art in the flesh, so to speak, then the venue is Portsmouth Cathedral and it runs daily from Saturday 26th July until Friday 8th August, you might even bump into the artist. There are plenty of other interesting things to see in Portsmouth so could be worth having a day out.

Train Spotting

2008-07-12T14:37:00.004+01:00

Following on from the train painting I did a few weeks back I searched the web to find some locations where I could photograph steam on a mainline. I came across a website and learnt of a steam special running from London Waterloo to Weymouth, being pulled by an old Southern Railway Bulleid air smoothed pacific locomotive 'Tangmere' one of the Battle of Britain class, appropriate in this the 90th anniversary of the Royal Air Force. I decided that a good vantage point would be to the west of Southampton Central station, unfortunately the weather hadn't taken any notice of the name of the train, 'Sunny Coast Special' and I ended up getting soaked, and what was worse was that after drying out all my gear including my mobile phone, I didn't get one shot worth keeping. The rain gave all the pictures a very grainy quality like something taken with an old box brownie.

Not to be deterred I found an old photograph taken on the Torbay - Kingswear line in Devon whilst on holiday with my son many years ago and this painting is the result.

A scene from Scotland

2008-06-27T16:12:00.003+01:00

With the submission date for the Annual Exhibition of the Portsmouth and Hampshire Art Society fast approaching, I have been considering which paintings to put forward, this is a watercolour painting recollecting the granduer of the West coast of Scotland, from one of my visits some years ago. An artist cannot fail to be inspired by the majestic scenery and rugged beauty of the place, and I feel I shall have to try and make another visit before too long.

If you wish to have a painting of a particular scene that is special for you, please feel free to contact me through my website www.artyman.co.uk for a no obligation discussion, or just visit my gallery for a browse.

Last weeks trip

2008-06-13T23:25:00.004+01:00

My son had some holiday last week so we took the opportunity to visit the Watercress Line preserved railway, that runs between Alresford and Alton in Hampshire. The weather was good and took the opportunity to get some photographs, this painting is based on one I took as the train arrived at Medstead and Four Marks, the highest point on the line before beginning the long descent into Alton.

We are off to visit the Great Western Railway Centre at Didcot tomorrow, celebration of Fathers Day, well that's the excuse anyway.

Another Acrylic Landscape Painting

2008-05-30T14:55:00.004+01:00

I've just completed this acrylic on canvas, though not sure that it should be considered a landscape or a wildlife painting since the deer caught in the shafts of sunlight filtering through the trees is the focal point.

Have shipped a couple of prints to the USA this week, I've noticed that deliveries there seem to be taking a little longer these days, perhasp the planes are flying slower to save fuel given the rising costs that we are all suffering from at the moment.

I have also just completed an order for notecards of a selection of my paintings which are sold to support the League of Friends at my local hospital. I'm have a trip planned to the Great Western Society at Didcot for next week, to gather some information for a forthcoming painting, so watch this space.

This weeks activities

2008-05-17T11:49:00.002+01:00

I have ventured into unknown territory this week and painted my first ever abstract, the wife says she likes it, but then maybe I should expect that. It is an acrylic on canvas and will probably be entered into the summer exhibition unless anyone offers me obscene amounts of money before then.

I have just shipped another Limited Edition print sold from my Ebid store. There are more and more sellers signing up there each day following their disillusionment with eBay's latest changes.

I've also given my car its spring clean and it's now looking nice and shiny, and today I am breaking with tradition and actually watching a soccer match. Portsmouth are in the FA Cup Final, the first time since they won it way back in 1939 before I was born. Since they are the local team I have to support them.

Late Summer Sun sold at exhibition !

2008-05-03T16:51:00.003+01:00

This is a landscape painting was sold at the recent exhibition, and have subsequently sold another Limited Edition print of it as well. You can buy this print along with more of my work from my online store at Tazbar

Well now that the April showers are hopefully out of the way, the weather may be good enough to venture outside on some painting expeditions. I visited the Guild of Railway Artists exhibition last week, and that has rekindled my love of steam trains, so a visit with my son to the Great Western Railway Centre at Didcot is scheduled for next month, you should expect to see a railway painting before long.

One for the exhibition

2008-04-18T12:27:00.004+01:00

This is one of my larger paintings being shown at the exhibition this weekend

Not much painting done this week, well apart from varnishing the garden seat. I was also delegated to attack a shrub, which has now gone to the local tip. It seems to me it would be a lot easier to just plant things at the tip, it would save all the cutting down and shifting it. We have had some visitors to the garden, this young starling who has fledged already, seems early to me, must be global warming.

More sales, more painting

2008-04-04T23:06:00.002+01:00

I have had some more sales on the eBid auction site this week. It is worth investigating if you are looking for a good alternative to eBay.

I have been working on some more of my miniature paintings ready for the exhibition at the end of the month. I have also had an enquiry from an art group wanting me to do a demonstration for them, which is something I enjoy, sharing my tips and experiences with other artists.

Busy Week

2008-03-28T12:26:00.003Z

It has been a busy week, preparing and attending a Craft Show locally. Another of my Limited Edition prints now finding a new wall to hang on. You can see more of these low cost prints at Tazbar.com

I have also been painting some more miniatures, this being one of the countryside series

A new seascape miniature

2008-03-21T17:52:00.002Z

This is one of a series of four miniature seascapes I'm painting ready to show in an art exhibition later next month. I usually sell most of them, however I have some miniatures available to purchase in my gallery at Tazbar

Exhibition success

2008-03-16T23:00:00.002Z

Have started painting some miniature seascapes this week for a forthcoming exhibition. This is one of my watercolour paintings which was sold at exhibition this weekend, part of an event to raise funds for a charity to help deaf children.

It was nice to see Lewis Hamilton win the first Grand Prix, I sold the original acrylic painting of him winning his first race in Canada last year.

Prints of both these paintings are available, visit my website www.artyman.co.uk

A Warm Sunny Beach

2008-03-07T15:38:00.004Z

Sitting here in England on a winters day, you might dream about somewhere warm, with azure seas lapping a sunlit beach. I have just completed this watercolour painting for a client in Ireland, though I have to say it's a shame that the budget didn't include the opportunity to do some on-site location sketches in Barbados.

All change at eBay

2008-02-29T17:50:00.000Z

Well there seems to be a lot of upset artists as well as other people on eBay these days. The monopoly is massively increasing its Fees that it charges sellers, softened by a very small decrease, 10 cents! in the cost of listing, and discounts, if you can qualify! Overall it a huge increase in costs. Not only is this a blow to the small sellers, eBay will decide whether the seller's item gets seen on the site according to the star feedback rating system.

It works like this, if you score below 4.6 then tough your listings will be at the bottom of the pile and not seen by the buyers, also if your rating is low you can't qualify for listing discounts. Now eBay says that a score of 4 is 'Good' thus guiding the buyers to select that out of possible 5 where 1 the lowest. So at a stroke they are skewing the system so it is unlikely they will have to give the sellers any discounts, and with their search system skewed pushing the low scorers out of sight. As an added bonus sellers can no longer leave a negative for the buyer that messes up or rips them off ( yes it does happen to some folk unfortunately ) I'm pleased to say that all my buyers when I was selling on ebay were excellent, and I had no problems.

No wonder so many people are unhappy, a lot of sellers and buyers are now deserting the place and going to alternatives sites like Tazbar and eBid so there will be less choice for buyers on eBay and they should now start looking for their bargains elsewhere.

I have been selling my art on both Tazbar and eBid for some time, and getting some great bargains as well, including a SatNav system on Tazbar that has been invaluable when I have been delivering paintings.

So check out these new auction sites, and see what bargains you can find, in the meantime, I must press on with a commission, and sort out some paintings for the next exhibition.

A new beginning

2008-02-17T13:53:00.003Z

With the proposed changes at eBay, artists along with many sellers who are unhappy with the situation at the monopoly, are moving away to sell, and also buy at new alternative venues. Sadly eBay seems resolutely set on its move to a department store approach, where big retailers who have been recruited by eBay have destroyed the community feel, that was once the big attraction to both buyers and sellers.

I already shifted away from eBay to new locations 18 months ago, a move that I don't regret. Many others are now waking up to the fact that they are working for eBay rather than eBay helping them to work, with the never ending escalation of fees and their failure to deal with scammers. So you may want to check out Tazbar or eBid and get back some of the pleasure that you used to have buying online.

There is a seller boycott of Ebay from 18th -25th February, so if you were thinking of buying or selling there, why not support the sellers, and try out some of the alternatives. You can see a list of other auction sites Here

There is an exciting new art only venue due to be launched so check back later for more details.

Independent Artists Group Exhibition

2008-02-06T20:34:00.000Z

I have been busy over the last week or so changing broadband suppliers, and getting ready for an exhibition which is currently being held in Rugby Museum and Art Gallery in the centre of town.

The Exhibition is by a group of us, who form the Independent Artist Group who come together, to exhibit our work throughout the country, in addition to our normal online selling activities. This presents people with the opportunity to see our art work in the flesh so to speak.

There are exhibits from 15 artists covering a wide range of styles, so if you are near the area why not pop along for a browse. Full deatils of viewing times can be found here

This is one of four watercolours that I am showing.

To visit my website just click here, if you are interested in puchasing a Limited Edition print or a painting, they are also available from the Tazbar online auction site.

Many new sellers are arriving at Tazbar and eBid another auction site, as well now, following eBays recent moves which has alienated thousands of good sellers, who are unhappy with the changes eBay is making. I can recommend a visit to either of these venues where you can pick up some real bargains.

Gloomy weather

2008-01-17T12:39:00.001Z

The weather has pretty wet and as a consequence natural light has not been good for painting, so I have been fiddling about with other things. I have just acquired a wireless remote release for my camera and I am hoping that this will enable me to take some closeup shots of some wildlife. They shouldn't be spooked if I'm not close by, but hopefully they will ignore the camera. These are some shots I took in the garden to test the setup. They are Goldfinches who seem pretty keen to eat all the Niger seeds that I can supply greedy little blighters.

Another Year starts

2008-01-05T16:55:00.000Z

It's been an odd sort of week, that seems to have flown by, but I don't know where it went, lost in the post Christmas New Year haze I suppose! I had a very nice book of Railway Art, I haven't painted a railway scene for quite a while so this has inspired me.

I've been selling some of my miniatures, three of them bought by one person. A couple of them here.

I treated myself to an electric pencil sharpener this week as well so I might get round to doing some more sketching. This is a little coloured pencil piece that I did yesterday.

I'm pleased to say that I got my car back from the repairers today, following the reprofiling of the rear wheel arch done by 'white van man' whose comment was classic - " I saw you but thought you'd gone".

Celebrating Christmas

2007-12-22T17:21:00.001Z

It seems my artwork is in demand, other people have been asking to buy prints of "Moonlight Anchorage" and I have therefore put this up on ebay together with some other prints Click Here to take a look. I may get the opportunity to put some more up, but what with the usual pandemonium for Christmas, and I still have presents to wrap! not much painting being done, as well as anything else.

I hope you all enjoy the celebrations and not forget the real reason for the season.

I've been watching the birds in the garden during the recent cold weather and got these shots of a couple of them. Perhaps this Robin is a refugee from a Christmas card.

This is a Goldfinch resplendent in his flashy plumage, I seem to be spending a small fortune on bird seed at the moment!

Safely delivered

2007-12-16T15:29:00.000Z

Well the painting of Aysgarth Falls has been safely delivered to the new owners, I hope it gives them as much pleasure as it has to me in the five years that I have had it hanging in my dining room. The trip to deliver it gave me an opportunity to try out a SatNav system that I won at auction on Tazbar the soft spoken lady seemed to have a different idea to me as to what would be the best route when I programmed in the destination the night before. So, I only turned it on when I was at the bottom of the M3, a bit later on she kept trying to get me to turn off, obviously trying to get me to use the A3, she tried again on a couple of exits near Staines and a couple of times on the M40. I did however let her have her wicked way with me as we got near the destination, and have to confess it was a lot easier with her dulcet tones telling me to go left and right and found my destination with ease, shame it doesn't sort out an empty parking spot though.

The day before, I had a van driver back into my car, fortunately not a lot of damge, but his comment, "I saw you, but thought you had gone" was priceless! I guess sorting that out this week, will scupper my painting plans, then it's Christmas, aah well, will get the brushes wet again soon I hope.

Aysgarth Falls Yorkshire

2007-12-08T12:14:00.000Z

I have just sold this painting of the famous beauty spot in Yorkshire. It was the largest painting I have done to date measuring 48"x20". I was eaten alive by midges whilst at the location, it being late evening. The sun was just kissing the tops of the trees on the other side f the river so, I took some reference photographs and escaped to the safety of the car, completing the painting later when I returned home.

I am a little sad to see it go as it has given me much pleasure hanging in my dining room for some time before I listed it for sale. I have of course other paintings which can be seen on my website www.artyman.co.uk

Happy clients

2007-12-01T22:28:00.001Z

The clients who commissioned the watercolour of the Nubble Lighthouse called today to collect their painting. This is the fourth one that they have commissioned from me and have now just moved ahead, in the highest numbers of my paintings owned list!

Spent some time tidying up the studio this week, after some prompting ( no dear I know you don't nag ) from the wife. Also spent some time trying to get some memory for the PC, which is now installed. I wonder if I could get some extra memory.

This week

2007-11-23T16:16:00.000Z

I had a painful start to the week as I managed to shut my thumb in the car door, which has made holding a paintbrush a bit difficult this week. Sitting in the new conservatory having my lunch today watching the birds in the garden was very pleasant, and it would be easy to spend too much time relaxing.

I managed to take my beginners watercolour class on Wednesday, although there were a couple of absentees, something about a football match or some such thing on TV, can't possibly think why it was important!

I need to get started on some new artwork in preparation for next years round of exhibitions. So off to get some paint as I'm getting low on a couple of colours.

Finished at Last!

2007-11-16T15:25:00.001Z

Over the last three months we have been having a new conservatory built to replace the old one that consisted mostly of rotten wood, or so it seemed! It has taken a bit longer than I envisaged at the outset but it has been worth the turmoil. I finished the decorating a couple of days ago and sitting in it watching the birds in the garden is a pleasure, might distract me from painting but I suppose I could argue that it is giving me inspiration for some more paintings.

These are a couple of photos .

Nubble Lighthouse Maine

2007-11-09T17:11:00.000Z

I've just completed this watercolour commission for a couple who visited here this summer whilst on holiday. They already have three more of my paintings that they previously commissioned. Working from photographs on this one, unfortunately their budget didn't quite cover an on site visit.

A Demonstration

2007-11-02T23:56:00.001Z

Started the week with a demonstration for the Hythe Art Society, I allowed what I thought was plenty of time for travel so I could have half an hour to set up and gather my thoughts. Ran into a huge traffic jam on the Motorway and had only travelled 10 miles in forty minutes, panic mode one. Arrived with five minutes to spare so felt a bit harrassed, but soon got into the swing of things. There was a larger audience than I was expecting, around 40/50, has news of my fame preceded me I wondered.

Trying to do my style of painting in a couple of hours is impossible, but I left them with a flavour of seascape painting and some tips on the way I work. I also took along a few of my marine paintings for them to see some examples, these can be seen on my website.

This was the painting I did, it's still in its unfinished state, I shall work on it again after I finish the commission I am currently working on.

That was the Week that Was

2007-10-28T12:57:00.000Z

Where did this week go too, as I don't seem to have very much to show for it. I had a day at the Royal Society of Marine Artists exhibition at the Mall Galleries in London on Monday. As always some amazing paintings to a very high standard. It was good to go again as I missed last years show being laid up with a bad back! The Royal Society of Miniaturists were also exhibiting there as well so that was a bonus. The detail that they can achieve on paintings measuring just a couple of inches is incredible, though I wonder what it does for your eyesight. Have a busy week ahead of me this week.

It's been a busy few weeks

2007-10-19T21:18:00.000+01:00

Well I have just finished taking a beginners watercolour course, attempting to pass on some of my knowledge to aspiring artists, which has been very interesting and I have been asked to do another course starting in a couple of weeks, I also have a demonstration for an Art Society scheduled. To add to my committments I have been commissioned to do a painting of the Nubble Lighthouse in Maine by some former clients who already own three of my paintings. So there is no peace for the wicked, guess I shouldn't be so wicked.

The finished commission

2007-10-12T11:27:00.000+01:00

I mentioned a commission a while back that I couldn't show as it was to be a birthday suprise for the recipient. I can now reveal the work, Michael Schumacher at Silverstone. Possibly the worlds greatest driver.

This painting came about as a result of them seeing another painting I had done of Lewis Hamilton, which has been sold, although Limited Edition prints of this are available. The question is will Lewis become World Champion this year?

On the domestic front, the new conservatory is having the floor laid as I type so hopefully by tonight the upheaval will be finished. Just have to do the painting then, just boring emulsion stuff, I don't have the time to do a Trompe Loeil as I have another commission to start, then a demonstration for an art society, then take another beginners watercolour course. So it goes on!

A Classic Landscape Garden

2007-09-21T12:12:00.002+01:00

Since we had a day without the builders and the weather was nice I took the opportunity to visit the National Trust gardens at Stourhead, a stunning manmade landscape garden, these are a few of the photographs I took which will serve as reference material for some future paintings.

The saga continues

2007-09-14T12:28:00.001+01:00

The new conservatory is progressing though I have to confess I shall be glad when the chaos is over. Been a busy week with preparations for the watercolour course that I am running. This caterpiller ws wandering across the path it is an Elephant Hawk Moth, at least it will be when it grows up, do caterpillers grow up not sure if metamorphosis can be called that. I wonder if he has finished munching in the garden?

Out of the Chaos

2007-09-05T12:20:00.000+01:00

We are currently in a little bit of a mess at the moment as the new conservatory is being installed, still I suppose it will be a nice place to paint when it is all finished. The client came to collect his painting of Fausto Coppi at the weekend and was delighted, he said it was far better than he envisaged. Always nice to have really happy customers.

This painting of the great days of the 'J' class yachts is listed on Tazbar

So pop along and take a look, there are also plenty of other things to look at on Tazbar which is a refreshing alternative to eBay.

Cyclist Fausto Coppi

2007-08-24T12:03:00.000+01:00

This is a commssioned painting for a cycling enthusiast. Fausto Coppi was a renowned competitor in the Tour de France in the 1950's and this depicts him way ahead of the competition in the mountains. He sadly died aged only 40 after catching malaria. Many consider him to be the greatest cyclist of all time.

Another commission completed

2007-08-18T10:32:00.001+01:00

I have just completed another commission for a client, to be a special birthday present, I can't post the image here yet, just in case it spoils the suprise, socheck out my website www.artyman.co.uk later on and look under commssions.

I now have to start another commission, this time a painting of Fausto Coppi, a renowned cyclist from the 1950's

On the domestic front the builders have now completed the brickwork for the new conservatory, it will be a nice replacement for the old wooden construction that I built many years ago, but the garden looks like a battlefield.

A visit to the Past

2007-08-08T17:24:00.000+01:00

I have been having a bit of a tidy on my hard drive and came across some of my earlier paintings, this is one of those early works and I may revisit this theme again when I have a moment. It is called after the rain which is perhaps somewhat appropriate after the recent floods that some people have had to endure.

A garden visitor

2007-08-01T11:26:00.001+01:00

The warm sunshine that now that Summer has finally made an appearance brought this visitor to my garden a couple of days ago. I tried to capture him in flight but it was next to impossible, I did get some very 'interesting' shots though!! Any way I had to settle for this. I'm told it is a 'Common Hawker'

Is this your handsome Prince

2007-07-24T12:40:00.001+01:00

My wife discovered this little chap, he was only 1.5" long, in our garden, Ok so you may have to kiss a few frogs before you get lucky, but hey I think he looks cute, and before you say it, yes I know he's a toad, but there weren't any frogs about

A rare day off!

2007-07-13T17:47:00.002+01:00

Took the opportunity to grab a rare day of sunshine this week and went to Titchfield Haven Nature Reserve. These are some of the photos that I took and may well be turned into paintings when I get the opportunity.

It made a pleasant change from all the bad weather that we have been experiencing lately

Preparations this Week

2007-07-07T11:42:00.000+01:00

I have been busy this week preparing entries for the main Summer Exhibition that will be held in Portsmouth during late July and early August. I have also been commissioned to do a painting of Michael Schumacher, so still going to be busy, and the studio still needs tidying up!

Lewis Hamilton Grand Prix Winner

2007-06-29T12:12:00.000+01:00

This is my latest painting in tribute to Lewis Hamilton's first Grand Prix win in Canada driving the McLaren F1 car. Painted in Acrylic it measures 15" x 11" unframed and would look great on any Formula One enthusiasts wall. If you are interested in this painting or perhaps a signed print then contact me on my website www.artyman.co.uk I now have to get some works ready for my main Summer exhibition, however there is still the chance of getting one of my prints or painting Post Free in the SS2BM campaign, but you will have to hurry it finishes tomorrow.

Chance for a bargain

2007-06-25T11:09:00.000+01:00

Well the SS2BM campaign is now well under way with plenty of bargains to be had. There is a charity auction being run at eBid so a chance to grab something and do your bit for charity as well.

Just starting a new painting today, so check back later to see what it is.

Only two days to go to SS2BM !

2007-06-18T23:49:00.000+01:00

Well it is only two days to go before the SS2BM 'Summer Solstice to Blue Moon' St.Elsewhere promotion. What is all this you may ask. About a year ago an increasing number of sellers on ebay were unhappy at the failure to deal with fraud and scams, the eventual outcome has been a dramatic rise in the viability of alternative auction sites that have acquired the nickname "St. Elsewheres"

Many people may not think to go anywwhere else except eBay, well here is the good news, there are plenty of alternatives and this promotion is to draw attention to the buying public, that there are plenty of bargains to be had at these alternative sites.

Just type SS2BM into Google to find thousands of links. I have listed my items on eBid and Tazbar but apart from artwork you never know what other delightful bargains you may find.

Wildlife Activity

2007-06-15T12:43:00.001+01:00

The local wildlife has been busy, and we had some collared doves set up a nest just opposite my bedroom window in the neighbours guttering. Unfortunately the first brood were taken by crows, they have however succesfully raised two more. The first picture is of her two youngsters both down her throat at the same time!

This is one of the fledglings in the garden yesterday.

The Beauty of the Garden

2007-05-31T15:51:00.000+01:00

As anyone who has met me or chatted on various forums know that "I am to gardening" what a "politician is to straight talking" ie I'm from the Machette and Flamethrower School of Horticulture.

I photographed this rose in my, or should I say the wifes garden, who tells me it is called 'Peace', the photo was so stunning I felt compelled to paint it, and this is the result.

The South Downs

2007-05-24T16:17:00.000+01:00

Despite living on the South Coast of England I am fortunate to live a few minutes drive from the rolling landscapes of the South Downs, and this painting is typical of the views on can experience. I remember as a child we used to walk down lanes such as this, with our packed lunch, not reappearing at home until teatime. Sadly a pleasure not possible for youngsters today. I hope I've captured some of that sense of open air freedom I one enjoyed.

The Ultimate Recommendation

2007-05-17T09:57:00.000+01:00

I suppose for any artist recognition of their work is what gives them a buzz, but selling a piece is confirmation that it is valued by someone who is prepared to spend their hard earned money on it. It is especially pleasing then, when a client having liked their original purchase so much, that they purchase a second artwork.

This has happened with this painting of the legendary Lancaster bomber, made famous through the Dambuster raids with the incredible bouncing bomb.

He now joins a select group who now own two or more of my original paintings.

Another commission completed

2007-05-04T09:01:00.000+01:00

I have just completed this commissioned painting for someone on Ebid A different challenge from my usual seascape and landscape work. Painted in acrylic the finished piece is 15"x 11". If you want to enquire about a commission just visit my website www.artyman.co.uk there is no obligation, and a chat will cost you nothing, you may be pleasantly suprised.

A new Online presence

2007-04-22T09:54:00.000+01:00

I have acquired a new online presence www.artyman.co.uk this currently points to my existing webspace though it is hoped that a major revamp will take place as soon as I have the chance. I have another commission to complete first! At this rate I shall be struggling to create some work for the Summer Exhibition.

The final two

2007-04-15T23:08:00.000+01:00

These are the final two postcard sized acrylic paintings, now I just need to get them framed ready for the exhibition.

Another roundtuit job is sorting out my website having now got the domain sorted www.artyman.co.uk so a lot of work to do, I wonder if I can get some time from somewhere going cheap.

The next two

2007-04-11T17:10:00.000+01:00

These are the next two 6" x 4" acrylics, need to get cracking on the remainder now for the exhibition.

The First Two

2007-04-03T10:07:00.000+01:00

These are the first two miniatures painted for the exhibition at the end of the month. They 6"x4" and acrylic on canvas Paper.

Space the Final Frontier

2007-03-28T10:28:00.000+01:00

This was a commissioned painting and something totally different from anything I've done before. The client specified the colour scheme and wanted a painting in which she and her husband could lose themselves, and take them to another place. This arose following their purchase of one of my photographs of the lunar eclipse.

I'm busy now painting six miniatures for an exhibition, at the end of April, so watch this space for news

Another sale elsewhere

2007-03-20T12:31:00.001Z

I have had another sale on a St Elsewhere, yet again proving there is life away from eBay. This was a watercolour painting which has been purchased as a retirement present.

A Garden Commission

2007-02-26T14:35:00.000Z

I was asked by a seller on Tazbar if I could paint from a photograph as he wanted a picture of a garden pond for his Fathers 60th birthday present. I said yes, but anyone who knows me is aware that I am a founder member of the 'Machette and Flamethrower School of Gardening' so this was going to be a challenge. It was duly completed and delivered and I received a response from the buyer of 'Fantastic'.

Thanks are due to my other half who is more green fingered than me, though that wouldn't be difficult. The picture is below.
The Garden Pond

I've been busy

2006-12-23T11:27:00.001Z

Since moving away from eBay I have been busy with a couple of commissions for some of the nice folk selling elsewhere.

This is a completed commission from a photograph submitted by a client, if you would like to commission a painting don't be afraid to ask, an enquiry is not going to cost you anything so I look forward to hearing from you.

Things are taking off

2006-11-02T17:22:00.000Z

Well since moving over to eBid at the end of August the site has grown tremendously and there is now so much to browse and buy. My eBay store has now been emptied of stock and will shortly be listed there.

Ebay's failure to properly address the concerns of sellers regarding fraud and scams, which place not only innocent buyers, but also honest sellers at risk, has resulted in the transfer of my buying and selling to this new venue. I recommned that you check it out.

My Shop is Moving Location

2006-08-22T10:42:00.001+01:00

Following the extortionate price increases by eBay and the removal of shop items from searches. My online Art Store has relocated to new friendlier premises where the landlord listens to the tenants!

This will enable me to continue to offer art to you at affordable prices and absorb recent postal increases. So you continue to get good value.

Just click the logo to visit

Record Numbers and Bargains

2006-08-07T16:43:00.000+01:00

Well the 'HAMMER' auction protesting at eBay's massive price increases for shop sellers had a record number of 43 bids. It even made it to the Pulse Art page ahead of Rolf Harris! Thank you to all who bid or watched this thus gaining publicity against the sheer greed of eBay.

I have had to restock my store using the last opportunity at the current rates before the increases take place. I am unsure as to whether I will continue to keep the store open after early November.

So here may be your last chance to buy some of my art on eBay, and as an incentive all shop items are POSTAGE FREE during August.

Grab a Bargain

Protest

2006-07-31T23:06:00.000+01:00

My protest at the massive Price Hike at eBay

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=150016670954

If you are a buyer on eBay then your choice in the future will probably be much reduced, so add this to your watch list and if you can bid as well to voice your protest.

Join the protest group http://groups.ebay.co.uk/forum.jspa?forumID=1600003483

Change in Strategy

2006-07-22T12:25:00.000+01:00

As you may or may not be aware eBay has announced massive rises in fees for store sellers which has resulted in a large number leaving and seeking other outlets for their art. If you are missing an artist you like on eBay then use the search engines to find them.

I shall probably be closing my eBay store and will sell direct from my website
www.wiz.to/art where you will still be able to buy using Paypal or Credit Card.

You can continue to check out my work here

**********************************************************************
If you wish to view comments about these matters please follow the following links.

http://forums.ebay.com.au/thread.jspa?messageID=500843710
http://forums.ebay.com/db2/thread.jspa?threadID=1000321345
http://forums.ebay.com.au/thread.jspa?threadID=500024740
http://forums.ebay.com/db2/thread.jspa?messageID=1005802572
http://forums.ebay.com/db2/thread.jspa?messageID=1005815606
http://groups.ebay.co.uk/forum.jspa?forumID=1600003483
http://groups.ebay.co.uk/forumType.jspa?type=home&categoryID=1600000320

Commissioned Waterfall Painting in Watercolour

2006-07-15T11:03:00.000+01:00

I've just finished and delivered this commissioned waterfall painting in watercolour to another new customer who was delighted.

This waterfall in Yorkshire is approached through a pub!
You go through the pub, you can of course stop for some refreshment to fortify you for the 1/4 mile walk to the scene! and down the back path and onwards.

There are a number of waterfalls at Ingleton and although the trip here will take you several hours it is well worth the effort. Another famous waterfall is Aysgarth Falls, which I have also painted, this one is in Acrylic and rather large at 48" x19"

I am shortly off on a pilgimage to 'Constable' country, so should have some material for inspiration on my return.

Life is busy

2006-06-30T21:23:00.000+01:00

I've not had much chance to paint recently, however here is a picture taken with my new camera, which hopefully will prove useful in obtaining refrence material for future paintings. Went for a sail with my brother yesterday in his new boat (wealthy git!) managed to get back without downing or sinking anything else. Have been preparing for a Craft demonstration day tomorrow.

This is a rose (I think,I belong to the 'machette and flamethrower school of gardening') taken yesterday evening.

Only this one now available

2006-06-24T21:19:00.000+01:00

Surf Shore

From the paintings posted here earlier this is the only one left still available, so check it out soon.

Check out the auction for Surf Shore

And a new ACEO also up for auction

Path to the Beach
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=150000365234

Ken Gillam
www.wiz.to/art

Original Watercolor Sunset Seascape Painting

2006-06-16T11:44:00.000+01:00

This is one of a number of miniature seascape paintings that have just been completed. Another highly collectible ACEO it has just been listed on eBay.

For more information on this and my other worldwide selling artwork, just click on the image.

Sails at Sunset

New Miniature Watercolor Seascape Paintings

2006-06-10T23:46:00.000+01:00

Haven't had time to do much but have managed these two miniature seascapes.

The texture of the paper seems to have shown up rather badly in the photos, perhaps I'll have another go later. They will be off shortly to an exhibition with some others.

Been a lttle Busy

2006-06-08T09:10:00.000+01:00

Have been a little busy, away for a few days attending a friends wedding. So not had much time to paint.

Anyway here is a great opportunity to get some seriious camera kit as I am selling my Olympus setup as I now have my Father's Nikon setup as he was a pro photographer.

Lots of stuff included, a real bargain bundle, check out the Auction for details

Seascape from Original Watercolor

2006-05-29T10:22:00.000+01:00

This is a Limited Edition print from the original watercolour commemorating Ellen MacArthur's record breaking trip around the world in 71 days 14 hours 18 minutes and 33 seconds, in her B&Q sponsored trimaran.

Profits from these prints are going to the Ellen MacArthur Trust a charity for young cancer and leukemia sufferers. This one is up for auction on Ebay, but if you miss out can be purchased from my eBay Store.

Original Acrylic ACEO 'Moonlight Anchorage'

2006-05-27T00:01:00.000+01:00

Following on from my much sought after ACEO 'Moonlight Beach' this latest miniature acrylic painting is on a similar theme.

Moonlight Anchorage

To bid on this painting Click Here

WATERCOLOR ACEO LANDSCAPE Langdale Pikes

2006-05-25T22:41:00.000+01:00

This is my latest listing for the ACEO collector. A place with an average rainfall of 130 inches, I think they shipped it here over the last week !

Langdale Pikes

Latest Acrylic Seascape Painting

2006-05-25T14:10:00.000+01:00

Have just completed my latest Acrylic Seascape Painting entitled 'A Rough Passage Home'. Unsure whether to keep this for the Summer Exhibition or to place it on eBay. If you are interested in this piece please contact me.

Busy time

2006-05-23T14:37:00.000+01:00

No new pictures to show you today as I have been trying to sort out a few things, plus a walk to my twin brother's house to check if a parcel had been delivered (it hadn't) He's sunning himself in Spain at the moment, lucky so and so, the weather here is appalling, windy, wet, and they keep slapping on drought orders!

I hope it improves tomorrow as I have to go to Buckinghamshire, perhaps I might get a chance to do some quick sketching. Now where's that paintbrush.......

Todays Bargain

2006-05-20T11:52:00.000+01:00

Your opportunity to obtain a Limited Edition print of an original acrylic seascape showing the majesty of the old J class yachts of the early 20th Century. This was real gentleman's yachting.

A Slight Lead

Another Miniature Seascape

2006-05-19T12:04:00.000+01:00

Just finished another miniature seascape ACEO, which is up for grabs just don't get trampled in the rush. Also working on a new larger Acrylic Painting so check back later to see how it turns out.

Moonlight Beach

A few more added

2006-05-17T09:20:00.000+01:00

Have just added a few more bargains for the avid art collector. I must now get down to some serious painting to replenish my stock.

For more information on these paintings Click here

Bargain Time

2006-05-16T22:28:00.000+01:00

Since eBay decided to have a cheap day for listing fees , there are now a number of bargains that you can check out. Bargain time Now is perhaps the time to buy that painting or print that you've been promising yourself, and fill that space on your wall that is just asking for a picture.

On the Beach

2006-05-16T00:09:00.000+01:00

Not listed an ACEO for ages so check this one out. For those who have not heard of ACEO's they are 'Art Cards Editions and Originals' miniature works of art that are always 2.5 x 3.5 inches. Avidly collected, particularly in the USA they can be a good way to have an art collection for which you don't have to be a millionaire.

On the Beach