I fancied a bit of a change of subject and thought I’d have a crack at a couple of little still life studies whilst the evenings are still rather dark. I can’t wait to get out to catch a sunset or two after work!

I like to keep it simple and try to focus on the basics as I didn’t really have the time to set up elaborate arrangments. Just something that sparks an interest and catches my attention. First up was a couple of conference pears done under a daylight lamp

I simply wanted to enjoy exploring the subject, looking at values, hues, edges, shapes etc. I was also trying to think about the nature of the marks on the surface and the impact they had on the painting. A good little exercise, whatever the outcome I guess. Check out some of the detail….

I then had a go at some snowdrops. A good job too as they’d wilted by the next morning! That was a little reminder to me that if something captures an interest then it’s best to go for it there and then. I was a bit jaded after a day in the office but thought it would be worth a shot. Again, the emphasis was on studying the essentials and not fussing with detail. The light was different and the table really WAS that colour! I’m not sure if I’m totally sold on it but I did like the depth of contrast with the bright flowers