Painting Royalty

No, I've not been commissioned to paint the Queen (although I'm available if asked...!). Instead, this painting is of a Wessex Helicopter landing at Sandringham House, one of Queen Elizabeth IIs privately-owned residences near Norfolk in the East of England. It is her custom to spend many Christmases there, and spends the anniversary of her father's death (and that of her own accession) there each year.


All the details of the Royal Flight's arrival are genuine, having been based on reference photographs of the vehicles and helicopter. This is a very detailed painting for a watercolour, even by my standards, but the work was very worthwhile. I'm pleased with the results!


As a nice coincidence, I painted most of this painting on the day on which Elizabeth II became our longest-reigning monarch - no mean achievement in view of the length of history associated with the Royal Succession. I will take this opportunity to congratulate her and wish her all the very best, from me, for the remainder of her reign. I still remember her waving to me - and just me - as I stood by my motorcycle in my leather jacket and long hair many years ago! I have taken the opportunity to include my own private tribute to her and the work she does within this painting. I don't think it will be obvious to anyone else - and I'm not telling!