Autumn at Orchard Hotel

This is a photograph of trees in the grounds of the Orchard Hotel, in Nottingham. Mike and I attended the British Fantasy Con for the weekend. It is a convention for Fantasy Writers, Publishers and Agents. I always pick up a lot of useful information from the Cons. Writing and Art are very similar businesses with the same sort of challenges.

In one of the quieter moments I managed to get outside and photograph lots of autumn leaves, I have more material for paintings. 

Viburnum davidii

The fruits of Viburnum davidii really are the most astonishing metallic blue. The leaves have three distinct veins. This watercolour and gouache painting was based on sketches and photographs taken at Ness Botanic Gardens.

The original painting sold at the Society of Botanical Artists 'Botanical Celebration' exhibition in London at Westminster Central Hall.

Autumn Sparkle

This time of year whenever I go out for a walk, I come back home with acorns and conkers in my pockets. I cannot help myself. If I see them lying on the ground I have to pick them up. I have a nature tray at home were I deposit my goodies for further study. 

Unfortunately I cannot pick up all the leaves, but I love taking photos and painting them, this painting of Autumn Leaves has a small amount of water on it to add I little sparkle.

Autumn Colours

Burleydam Garden Centre was the source of inspiration for this watercolour and gouache painting. I had been visiting the Garden Centre when it started pouring with rain. I took shelter in the cafe with a cup of tea until it stopped. The sun came out and it was just too good an opportunity to miss, so I snapped away taking lots of photographs of this shrub. I love the colours of the leaves at this time of year.