Thanks Phil, Angela and Patsy for your comments. I've only just found them, almost by accident, it was written in very feint script. I'll make a note to look carefully next time. I'm all excited, as weather permitting, I'm going out tomorrow morning, to spend a few hours near Walmer Castle on the East Kent Coast, to paint and sketch, whatever I see. A group of us (all members of the local Art Club), try to paint each week, and I've noticed that my work is now improving again, after last year when it went backwards, and I ended the year worse than at the start. Has this ever happened to you? Julian

Welcome Julian...congratulations on your first sale it must be a wonderful feeling...I live in Western Australia and many artists here paint out doors but it's not for me...way too hot and the flies even in winter drive me nuts plus I am an Irish person so sun and me don't mix...so it's photos for me...I am not to prolific at the moment having just started back with the brushes after 20 odd years so I'm on another learning curve...I have recently started a watercolour class that is part of a society which I may join not sure yet...so that's me

Yes Julian I do, when I can. The weather dosent always allow but even so I just enjoy being outside in the fresh air. The sounds and atmosphere are always part of the scene. I must say that I dont always produce very acomplished work that way but as I enjoy trying I still think it is worth it. I am quite capable of producing rubbish indoors as well as out and at least if you are outside you will have enjoyed an hour or two in the fresh air. Well done for selling your first picture it is such a boost when something sells. I havent sold anything this year and really need to get some momentum going. I think being in a group can help and hinder. I find myself conforming rather too much to peer group pressures , so I think time outside painting can help to counter this as well. Anyway, I am working from home as an accountant but have to have a peep at the gallery to see what has come up and I am always tempted to make a comment, as I appreciate them myself. I will have to get some work done. Bye

Welcome to this section of this site Julian.