More Outdoor Painting

Well, I've just got back from a few days away along the Moray Firth and down the Great Glen. This was a family holiday, so I didn't do a great deal of painting but did a lot of walking instead - up to 10 miles a day! This didn't leave a lot of time for art but after a walk one afternoon I painted the mouth of Nairn Harbour - the Maggot. It's just a little painting at 10.5 x 7" and it was painted on a very crowded harbour wall with tourists everywhere! As usual, quite a lot of people were interested in the painting, from passing judgement (when it was half done!) to telling me all about their own painting experiences. It was great fun, and I actually spent more time chatting than painting. Even a group of teenagers who were playing in the water and diving off the harbour walls came over for a look and a chat. I think a lot of people are put off open-air painting because they're worried about other people thinking their work isn't good. My advice is just have a go - it's great fun, relaxing, and I've never had anyone comment negatively - even years ago when I was just starting out. Oh, and if you're wondering why this crowded harbour has been shown with only a single person in it, please have a look at the painting's page for the reason why.

---