I picture the literature review as a map, with interconnecting routes and discoveries of new landscapes as I explore new pathways and notice new vistas. Exciting! I am struggling with clarifying my research question, which will then frame my reading. I have talked with a colleague which was very useful as she was able to … Continue reading
Here, I will be recording my developing research writings. These are part retrospective and part looking to the future. After a life time in outdoor learning, I am eager to pass on some of my insights, and just as interested in developing my ideas and thoughts. I have been greatly influenced by colleagues here in … Continue reading
It is easy to rush around, grabbing photographs and missing the wonder of the changing dance of light on the surrounding slopes and watery surfaces. I am standing in a favourite spot. Most of the time I am alone. A curious young motorcyclist comes and asks for ‘photograph’. His brief presence adds to the mood … Continue reading
Many years ago I was flicking through a magazine and came upon an article about Andy Worhol’s swimming pool collection. I was mesmerised by the translucent turquoise; the patterns and ripples that transformed reality into an organic and abstract work of art. I have since been drawn to the liquid art of The Jubilee Pool … Continue reading
Many will know that I spend a lot of time each year at Cardamom House, in the foot hills of the Western Ghats. This is in Tamil Nadu, a drier state than Kerala. The sunsets can be spectacular; the birds and flowers exotic. We are visited by many artists and some of my inspirations … Continue reading
Southsea is my home. I’ve lived here for over 50 years and have discovered that my forebears lived on Portsea Island as long ago as the mid 1700s. The sea surrounding Portsea Island is the best of two worlds – a built up sea front offering a cycle route, places to walk, historic monuments, piers … Continue reading
For me, these images have a sensual quality.
At first, my creativity was quelled. Being in the same place for a number of weeks, with the same old views, from the same old positions can stifle the desire to explore. It can also lead to a more intimate awareness of the nuances of light. For the last fifteen or more years I have stared … Continue reading
Back in Portsmouth I may sit down with brushes and paints, but my creativity often feels constrained by other demands on my time and the limitations of my intentions. Having two months at Cardamom House gives plenty of time to try out ideas and experiment. Here are three different watercolour styles. At times, it has … Continue reading
For me, New Year’s Eve is a time for reflection, a time for taking stock. In addition, as the year draws to a close, my attentions are drawn to: writing a paper on how we connect with place, and selecting images that might be suitable for the forthcoming Emsworth Arts Trail. Again, I have become aware … Continue reading