For as long as I can remember, I’ve kept a sketchbook/notebook by my bed, not far from my side to consider ‘things’ anywhere but in my head. The head is fallible and never enough, if the idea comes surrounded by the speed of life….especially when ageing comes into the equation! And thoughts come as often as dreams and I write them down as much as I can as well.

Years ago, my art tutors emphasised the importance of sketchbooks. I was supposed to have them available for assessors to scrutinise at my degree show, but I confess my practice had grown lax during that time.

Roll on the years and I am always using sketchbooks, but not how I used to. Once upon a time, they were for anything other and beyond my artistic practice; more recently they have become diectly to do with current paintings in particular. I’ve found a way of channelling myself through sketchbook practice into finished paintings. It’s exhilarating and refreshing. The ‘other’ has joined in with self expression and meaning.

I wish those examiners could see my sketchbooks now!

Here is a brief flick through my current sketchbook so far…