Portfolio

Sanine (Sandend) – coastal paintings

Sandend or as the locals call it , Sanine was a breath of fresh air for someone accustomed to the hustle and bustle of city life .

The drive up there alone was nice ; driving through small towns and villages until coming to its boundary and you’re met with a view of the coastline .

I parked up beside the caravan site and walked along a small path which led to the beach . It was high tide but that didn’t stop me . Following a narrow and slightly uneven path up and along the sand dunes allowed for a greater visibility of Sanine and it’s beautiful coastline. To the right was the curving rows of idyllic seaside houses that were right on the waters edge and continued round to the quaint harbour. The grassy hills behind were bright and decorated with daffodils.

To the left was the sweeping grassy dune edged coastline that was adorned with remnants of world war 2 sea defences and gun houses showcasing the areas unique history . To the far left was a new set of stairs that led up the brae which would take you around the coast to Portsoy . Unfortunately with the high winds I wasn’t able to explore this path but I intend to come back and trek around it. I can only imagine the great scenery.

Standing up on the highest point of the sand dunes surrounded by the stunning views and sounds of the grasses blowing in the wind, crashing waves and birds filled me with peace . The sun was shining which caused the colours to be extra vibrant and alive. Everything just felt calm and peaceful juxtaposing the blustery winds and rough waves crashing against the shoreline . It was early morning and the village was slowly waking up despite the elements already being in full swing . Pedestrians and dog walkers started to appear, using the ready and at hand surroundings to get out and about . I felt envious at that point at how close this glorious walk was for the locals . Being able to get on the beach and walk along the coastline whenever they wanted . There is something truly special about being next to the sea . Breathing in the salty sea air , feeling the cool wind against your skin and Seeing it’s beauty and feeling a sense of peace. It also makes me aware of its sheer power and the unknown beneath . I was keenly aware of how nature can be all giving but also all consuming.

Despite my training as a fine artist (drawing and painting) my work is also highly influenced by my work and practice as a walking artist . You cannot simply take a snapshot and create a piece of work that embodies a place fully . Being able to submerge yourself in the surroundings, listen to the sounds and experience it with all your senses truly allows you to add that little bit extra to the work . Knowing the place and feeling it’s presence for my work is crucial. Sometimes it makes it more of a challenge to truly capture what I feel.

The whole time I was there I was filled with a sense of calm , a feeling of renewal and nostalgia. It allowed for lots of introspection.

To summarise , i can say with certainty that Sanine has definitely captured my heart as a person and as an artist . It is a place I intend to visit frequently to see how the changes of the seasons can transform it .

MORE TO COME FROM THIS SERIES .

Winter paintings

There’s is something truly magical about painting snow . The way it takes on the colours around it and sparkles .

Landscape Paintings/ Drawings

This is probably one of my favourite things to paint and draw . I love exploring woodlands and taking in the sights and sounds and reflecting that in my work .