This Painting Life: 2008

Sunday 21 December 2008

St Martin-in-the-fields from the National Gallery

18 x 13 cm
Acrylic on paper
Sold Private Collection

This is looking at one of my favourite buildings in London from another favourite. I like standing on the steps of the National Gallery, either looking out over Trafalgar Square and down to the Houses of Parliament or across at St Martin's. On this day the church was brilliantly white against the blue of the sky and the shadows across the columns were constantly changing with the light.

South Bank evening

18cm x 13cm
Acrylic on paper
Sold - Private Collection

As I walked along the South Bank the daylight faded and the lights of the city came on, sparkling in the distance. Lots of others were strolling along, admiring the view and a beautiful evening. London, to me, looks at its best in this dusky pink twilight.

St Paul's Church, Covent Garden

18 x 13 cm
Acrylic on paper
Sold Private collection

This is also known as the Actor's Church because of its many associations with the theatrical community. The lights and energy of the London theatres are all around but this is an oasis of peace. I particularly like the monumentality of this facade which looks on to the Piazza. This isn't the front, that is round the back!

Covent Garden, evening in the Piazza

18 x 13 cm
Acrylic on paper
(unframed)
sold - Private collection

I love cities at night. This was inspired by a trip to London in September and evenings spent wandering around Covent Garden. The weather was balmy and crowds of people were enjoying their drinks and dinner outside.