In addition to painting, I also work 2 days a week at City College Norwich on the Curriculum Support Team where I help support students with a range of learning difficulties. Over the years I have done a variety of work in order to supplement the income from my painting and to provide me with a regular pay packet at the end of each month but this is the first job I have had that I can honestly say, I thoroughly enjoy! I gain a huge sense of satisfaction and achievement from helping and encouraging students to progress and grow both on a personal level and academically and although challenging at times, I feel privileged to work with such amazing young people. Last Thursday was the last day of the current academic year for one of the groups that I work with and although there were high spirits from many for the long summer break ahead, there were also some tears as many will be going into different groups in September and some would not be returning as they would be moving on entirely.
SOLO SHOW Last Autumn I was given the opportunity to have my first solo show at Buckenham Galleries, my first solo show in a commercial gallery; I obviously jumped at the offer! I managed to complete 4 paintings prior to Christmas and once I had made decisions concerning mediums and supports in the new year, it was full steam ahead, working six days a week, including my two and a half days employed work, in order the complete all the work that was necessary to fill the gallery space; the last couple of weeks working 7 days a week. It was exhausting, challenging and consumed every moment of my waking and sleeping life! It was however, a terrifically enjoyable exercise and without doubt, the continuity and focus, which was necessary, certainly had a positive impact on the work itself. One piece, 'Hornbeams, South Elmham Minster', a large piece, was sold prior to me completing it but as I had intended it to be included in the exhibition, I still showed it. I sold 2 further pieces at the opening, which I was very pleased about, especially as the gallery manager had warned me that it was unlikely that there would be any sales resulting from it. WEDDING
On June 20th, my partner of six and a half years and I were married at Diss Registry Office, followed by a Handfasting and party at our home on June 21st. The couple of weeks beforehand were manically busy preparing the barn, ensuring we had tables and chairs, food and all the necessary bits and pieces to make everything look pretty. We had previously booked bands, sound systems and marquees and had friends arrive during the previous week to help organise everything. It was a wonderful weekend and contrary to the forecast, the weather was perfect, sunny skies and temperatures in the mid twenties. Having the space, everyone camped and we danced through the night! Now we embark on a new chapter of our lives together! |
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December 2018
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