Hi Reader, Exciting news! My 2026 painting retreat in France is now open for bookings - just for my email subscribers! ✨ This year’s retreat filled up quickly, and I expect 2026 to be no different. If you’ve ever dreamed of sketching in the stunning French countryside, exploring charming villages, and sharing meals with fellow artists, this is your chance! We’ll spend nine unforgettable days at Perigord Retreats, where our wonderful hosts, Harrison & Katel, make the experience truly special....

Hi Reader, Imagine spending a week painting in beautiful Tuscany! I’m excited to announce that I’ve been invited by the Steinberg family to host a painting holiday on their beautifully restored property, Hortulanus, this October. Located in the Seggianese region in Tuscany, it’s an absolutely gorgeous place in the perfect location. Overlooking Castle Potentino and opening its gaze on the pretty village of Seggiano, Hortulanus is a tranquil paradise of beautiful gardens and century old olive...

Hi Reader, This summer I've been fascinated by the meadows around my home. The grass is high and full of texture and colour that changes week by week. To capture this I could paint lots and lots of lines and marks, then paint the flowers with gouache, but it's more interesting and fun to use splashes, scratches and salt to create the texture. Read on... Pass the salt One way I enjoy adding marks and texture to my watercolours is by adding salt into the wet wash. I don't use anything fancy,...