after "HMS Renown" by Joe Hargreaves

Gosh Joe, what a fabulous painting!! I wish I could paint and capture a moment like this. I also love the subject.

thanks Fiona. I really enjoyed painting it too. There's one book you must get, which is "The Celebration of Marine Art, 60 years of the RSMA" see http://www.amazon.co.uk/A-Celebration-of-Marine-Art/dp/0753711397

I do have an interest in military history...land and sea, I'll certainly look at the book, thanks for that Joe. I think you definately ought to do more of these, great stuff!!!

Just had a peek at the book....it's on my wish list!!lol

its a great book, and the you can see more on the RSMA at http://www.rsma-web.co.uk/ its my intention to get a picture selected for exhibition with them, very soon

It may be a copy Joe, but it does bear your inimitable style. I really like the vibrancy and your very free brushstrokes. Thank you again for your recommendation of the John Pike book. It arrived a couple of days back, and I'm really enjoying the read.

thanks Seok, and glad you are enjoying the John Pike book. Don't forget to do his exercises, it will really increase your technique.

terrific piece of work, inspires me to be more adventurous, i know what you mean about big brushes they really do free you up

That flat brush did the trick! I know what you mean about "liberating", you can't fiddle around with a large brush and struggle with detail can you? I have a few large, flat hake brushes and I love using them for large works. This is a super painting, full of movement.

Many thanks. I use Robert Wade signature brushes in .05, 1.0 and 1.5 inch sizes. They are made by NEEF, and they're great. See the (long) link http://www.seniorart.com.au/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=4_142_222_231_233

Can I also recommend Ron Ranson Hake brushes :)

Ron paints a very loose style. He's very good at skies.

I'm knocked out by this copy of the Norman Howard painting, Joe. Would you happen to know if his paintings are ever sold at auctions? I'd love to try to buy one, if it's not out of my range.