Elizabeth McCrindle A Scottish Artist

And now for something totally different.....

2012-02-10T19:40:00.001Z

Way back around about Christmas time a couple of artist friends and I had a cyber chat about doing something different from our normal work. Linda Shantz, Sheona Hamilton Grant and I came up with the plan to capture an apple. Well time passed by and the idea kind off fell by the wayside until one day there is was...a blog post by Linda featuring a proper juicy apple. Then Sheona's appeared.... I'd run out off excuses. So a Royal Gala, well quite a few Royal Galas were purchased, lined up and this poor soul was the guinea pig......lol. I think the last apple I attempted was probably in high school but you know after the first few horrifying moments and adjustments to it's shape I enjoyed it. That said it tasted better than it looks....smile.
Have a great weekend and thanks for popping by......

http://www.elizabethmccrindle.com/

"Barley Coming Through" Acrylic 8x8

2012-02-07T11:14:00.000Z

"Barley Coming Through"

Acrylic 8x8

copyright Elizabeth McCrindle

This is the painting I started on Sunday which I was supposed to carry on with yesterday. The best laid plans and all that. Yesterday turned into a gorgeous day and I spent it in the garden, those who follow the blog will know that a lot of gale damage was done to my garden, only one line of fencing still standing. Yesterday saw me making a start to get it back in order. I have to say being out in the open air was a huge tonic for me even the fact that so much has been damaged my spirits were lifted. This morning I cracked on and finished this wee painting and although it went in and out of the uglies I'm delighted with the outcome.

Now to get another wee one started (something different), lunch ready and then back out into the garden.

Thanks for popping in for a look........

http://www.elizabethmccrindle.com/

Quiet weekend but made a start for tomorrow.....

2012-02-05T21:22:00.000Z

I've had a quiet weekend catching up on a few chores and taking time out to relax. Then I thought I'd just come up and prepare for tomorrow. I sometimes find the getting started can take the longest, so no excuses I'm already to get going. Another landscape with a promise of summer......I'm now off to see who is for the chop in tonight's Dancing On Ice.
Hope you all having a great weekend and thanks for popping in....

Photos aren't the best but you get the idea :)

http://www.elizabethmccrindle.com/

Standing tall.........

2012-02-02T22:55:00.001Z

I love the way the winter sun is hitting this old post, it's a favourite of mine and has been there in that spot for as long as I can remember. Standing tall against all weather and storms. My head was full of so much that I wanted to do today that in the end I accomplished nothing. Tomorrow I'll pay heed to the wee quote below......

Small deeds done are better than great deeds planned. ~Peter Marshall

Abstract Landscape....

2012-02-01T20:02:00.001Z

Abstract Landscape

Thought I'd try something a little different today my first abstract inspired by Googles Maps....sorry just a bit of leg pulling, had planned another wee landscape but my vision went a bit odd. This is actually my palette.... I know I'm a messy midden. That said maybe I should stick a frame on it, you just never know.

Hopefully normal service will be returned tomorrow.....

http://www.elizabethmccrindle.com/

Bleached

2012-01-30T12:44:00.000Z

Bleached

I know those arriving on the blog expecting paintings and getting photographs will be a bit disappointed. It's just how things are right now, the paintings will come, sometimes in little bursts and sometimes spaced out. But this is all part of my process taking the photos help to inspire the paintings. Plus I like them and it's my Blog.....smile!!

Was a particularly pretty morning this morning, after the mild temps we've been having things are brisking up......

http://www.elizabethmccrindle.com/

Oh what a beautiful morning..........

2012-01-28T12:33:00.000Z

Feel a little chirpier this morning than I have of late...been a bit of a grumble bum. This morning was cold with a very nippy frost, I had to scrape my windscreen. But the sky was glorious gave me a smile for the rest of the day. So, where ever you are ((((smile))))......

"High Summer" Acrylic 8x8

2012-01-27T19:33:00.001Z

"High Summer"

Acrylic 8x8

copyright Elizabeth McCrindle

These days I seem to have trouble making up my mind, so this might be finished but I'll leave it over the weekend before I sign it.....sigh!!

*Post note*

Had a good look at this one last night and today (Saturday) and you know what.....I really like it so it's a keeper. Well not a keeper as such, first to ask and it's of to a new home, other than that it'll be in one of the up coming Spring exhibitions.

http://www.elizabethmccrindle.com

Yon Wild Mossy Mountains ~ Robert Burns 25th January ~ 21st July 1796

2012-01-25T07:01:00.002Z

In celebration of the Bard's birthday......

Yon wild mossy mountains sae lofty and wide,
That nurse in their bosom the youth o' the Clyde,
Where the grouse lead their coveys thro' the heather to feed,
And the shepherd tends his flock as he pipes on his reed.

Not Gowrie's rich valley, nor Forth's sunny shores,
To me hae the charms o'yon wild, mossy moors;
For there, by a lanely, sequestered stream,
Besides a sweet lassie, my thought and my dream.

Amang thae wild mountains shall still be my path,
Ilk stream foaming down its ain green, narrow strath;
For there, wi' my lassie, the day lang I rove,
While o'er us unheeded flie the swift hours o'love.

She is not the fairest, altho' she is fair;
O' nice education but sma' is her share;
Her parentage humble as humble can be;
But I lo'e the dear lassie because she lo'es me.

To Beauty what man but maun yield him a prize,
In her armour of glances, and blushes, and sighs?
And when wit and refinement hae polish'd her darts,
They dazzle our een, as they flie to our hearts.

But kindness, sweet kindness, in the fond-sparkling e'e,
Has lustre outshining the diamond to me;
And the heart beating love as I'm clasp'd in her arms,
O, these are my lassie's all-conquering charms!

http://www.elizabethmccrindle.com/

2012-01-24T16:25:00.000Z

"It is only when we silent the blaring sounds of our daily existence that we can finally hear the whispers of truth that life reveals to us, as it stands knocking on the doorsteps of our hearts." ~K.T. Jong

Blackbird

2012-01-17T23:43:00.000Z

We've been having some frosty weather these last few days so I've been putting out extra rations for the birds. I got my reward when this handsome Blackbird posed for a photo love his bright orange beak.

Hard Going

2012-01-14T21:30:00.000Z

Working title "The Winner"

copyright Elizabeth McCrindle

Worked a little on the wee painting I started at the beginning of the year. I've been painting so long in acrylics I feel as if I'm doing this one left handed. It's going to take a wee while to get into working with oils again. Everything feels different, mixing colour and how long it takes to dry. Plus I think it's also a confidence thing, but I guess it's just about putting in the hours. Just have to have a few going at the same time. So it looks as if your going to be jumping around from one painting to another with me. Will be working on some acrylics as the Spring exhibitions will be coming soon so that's something to look forward too.
Thanks for dropping in.....

http://www.elizabethmccrindle.com/

2012-01-13T11:47:00.001Z

Frosted Hydrangea

"I can enjoy society in a room; but out of doors, nature is company enough for me." ~William Hazlitt

From the Scrapbook - John Emms "Resting After The Hunt"

2012-01-12T22:11:00.000Z

I have no idea where the week has gone, but gone it has. Most of it has been spent looking for fencing to replace what was flattened by the storms. Mulling over what to pick, sparred fencing seems the sensible way to go as it's more wind friendly. I lost all five panels at the top of the garden another six between me and one neighbour and thankfully though miraculously only one on the other side. It was an odd sized piece as it was between the gate and the wall of the house so. my Uncle made me a new one to fit. I painted it yesterday with Autumn Red wood preserver. All was going well until I noticed Joshua out of the corner of my eye heading towards me and the fence. I was just about to tell him no he would get covered in paint, when I saw his feet and legs. Being blind he hadn't seen the lid of the paint on the path (my fault should have sat it on the table) and had walked right through it. Off course he had also had a wee wander as well and there were red paw marks everywhere. I'm surprised my blood pressure isn't off the scales lol.

Hoping to get some easel time tomorrow and the weekend. Meanwhile here's one from the scrapbook by John Emms called "Resting After The Hunt", great colour and composition.

Thanks for looking in........

http://www.elizabethmccrindle.com/

Naked Trees...

2012-01-07T17:08:00.001Z

This mornings sunrise.....

Have to say over the last few weeks of appalling weather and because I no longer have a horse depending on me....I've turned into a bit of a hot house plant. But today there was a brief blink of sunshine so I pulled on my walking boots and headed out. Sunshine yes, anything like warm, not on your nellie, it was baltic. My body still hasn't quite recovered from almost being halved by the icy wind that was hurtling down the country walk....I've turned into a softie lol. In my defense my trusty jacket that had seen me through many Scottish winters left when Tara left....couldn't bear to wear it anymore. It's replacement is next to useless and even with a few layers underneath didn't stop the chill it will have to be replaced. Moaning done with, it was great to be out in the overfresh air and I was happy to see that more or less all the old trees have survived the gales. Unfortunately there wasn't much to photograph, very bleak mid winter....smile. All the farm animals are safely tucked away in nice cosy sheds not even a sheep in sight. I know through experiance that even in a few weeks changes will be afoot and my camera will start clicking away.

Hope your having a lovely weekend where ever you may be and staying snug...thanks for dropping in.

http://www.elizabethmccrindle.com/

2012-01-07T01:01:00.000Z

"Weeds are flowers too, once you get to know them." ~A.A. Milne

"The Coast" Acrylic 6x6

2012-01-05T16:16:00.001Z

This wee one has been wiped on and off all day but I think I'm finally happy with it. Colours in the painting are not as bright here at the moment. Strange weather we've been having, I feel we are needing a lamp on virtually all day. "The Coast" Acrylic 6x6 £100- unframed. Drop me a line if your interested.
Thanks for looking in......

http://www.elizabethmccrindle.com/

Cotton Wool Clouds Acrylic 6x6

2012-01-02T23:27:00.002Z

Took down the Christmas decorations today in an attempt to get back to normality. The house feels a little strange without her baubles. Add to that the last few days have been a bit dull and today was no different. So, to brighten myself up I did a sunny landscape swamped with a big cotton wool ball sky. Instant sunshine....smile! "Cotton Wool Clouds" Acrylic 6x6 £100- unframed.... copyright Elizabeth McCrindle

http://www.elizabethmccrindle.com/

Growing....

2012-01-01T17:18:00.001Z

Working title for this oil study is "The Winner"

copyright Elizabeth McCrindle

Don't do resolutions, but I like the idea I got from a post made on Facebook by Kimberly Santini ( Painting A Dog A Day) to pick a word for the year. This years word for me is growing. Growing as an artist, developing my skills and portfolio, growing as a person and finding the me that I know is in there. The last few years have been a rollercoaster full of ups and downs but I've got me a big torch and there IS a light at the end of the tunnel.

I'm so loving how this wee study is progressing but then I do love painting horses...smile.

Thanks for looking in......

http://www.elizabethmccrindle.com/

From the Old to the New..........

2011-12-31T20:12:00.002Z

Started this wee doodle late this afternoon, if you look closely you'll notice my signature in the centre of the horses face. It was a piece of cut up board that was lying in the studio. I bit of a kismet moment as the old year finishes and the new year begins.....so this old painting starts afresh.
Wishing you all A Happy and Healthy 2012 and thank you for all the lovely comments left throughout 2011.

New Website.......

2011-12-28T23:07:00.001Z

"Sun on the Birch"

Acrylic 16x16

sold

Enjoying a little break for the holidays and I hope those looking in are able to take a little time out to just chill. Plans are afoot for the incoming new year but I'll dicuss that later in another post. Meanwhile I thought you might all like to know that I have a new website address. Figured I was going to need a bit more space to show off all the new paintings I'll be producing in 2012. It's still a work in progress but I hope you'll like it as much as I do..... http://www.elizabethmccrindle.com/

See you next year....smile!

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2011-12-24T23:33:00.000Z

Merry Christmas see you next year.....

"Winter Tracks" Acrylic 6x6

2011-12-18T15:29:00.000Z

Had an enjoyable afternoon bringing together this wee snowscape. We don't actually have snow at the moment just ice. But everywhere around us has had varying degrees of dusting. This is just an impressionistic idea straight out off my head by remembering what I've seen. It's sometimes just nice and relaxing to let your imagination to the work........"Winter Tracks" Acrylic 6x6.

Thanks for popping in.....

2011-12-15T21:53:00.002Z

away........

Not a good start....

2011-12-14T22:33:00.000Z

Ok, this morning wasn't my best morning. Yesterday and into the night we had another nasty weatherfront, the second in less than a week. I woke this morning to discover that I had lost (as in unrepairable) 12 panels of fencing. Why is it when you finally think things are getting a bit better you get the rug pulled out from under. Feeling a bit as if I had been battered I drove into town to meet up with my friend Jane. Her grandaughter Mirren was singing with the rest off her class at our local supermarket. All the primary schools in the area take turns to sing Carols at this time of the year. I have to say it was just the tonic I needed. To see and hear the joy in their hearts and voices lifted my spirit. They only had a one hour slot and it flew in, I could have stood another hour listening and cough cough joining in.

As I wandered round the supermarket afterwards for a few odds and ends the fence disappeared to the back of my mind. I bought a couple of my favourite magazines came home and sat down and watched a Christmas movie on TV. The fence can wait.......

Isn't Mirren gorgeous in her Santa hat.....

2011-12-14T07:48:00.002Z

Hair Style

Part of the furniture........

2011-12-13T15:42:00.000Z

I try to hang my paintings around the house while they are waiting for their forever homes. It's helpful in stopping the frame getting damaged (very easy to kick them on passing even when wrapped). Plus if someone calls and asks what I have they get a better idea seeing them hung. Occasionally though some fit into a space so well they become part of the furniture. This is one of those, it has been on show but I think it deliberately gets itself hung in a unflattering spot so it get's to come back home...."Arran Has Snow" Acrylic 20x20.

2011-12-12T11:38:00.002Z

Ok I know you might feel as if you've had a wee bit too much whiskey if you look at this one too long. But there's something I like about it...plus it's difficult to photograph a fibre optic :)

One of my wee Christmas tealights.....

2011-12-12T00:00:00.000Z

How like a queen comes forth the lonely Moon
From the slow opening curtains of the clouds
Walking in beauty to her midnight throne!
~George Croly

2011-12-10T22:26:00.000Z

Winter came down to our home one night

Quietly pirouetting in on silvery toed slippers of snow,

And we, were children once again.

~ Bill Morgan Jnr ~

I'll Huff and I'll Puff and I'll Blow Your House Down....

2011-12-08T11:34:00.001Z

......well that's what it feels like at the moment. I'm in my 'cave' working away at new paintings. Plus trying unsuccessfully to ignore the wind that is battering the side of the house. I've already been out and moved anything that could turn into a missile behind the hedge and against the fence. That said the fence doesn't look too healthy...eeek!
There's been more photos on show than paintings over the last few days but the paintings will come....eventually. In the meantime here is one from the archives, can only be Hurricane Jack. Incidently Jack left everyone in his slipstream on Monday at Musselburgh winning from start to finish in a 3 mile chase. Well done to all his connections....smile. Might be on a go slow for a little while...but I will be back. Keep warm where ever you are and thanks for popping in.

"Hurricane Jack"

Oils 24x20

Commission

2011-12-08T00:11:00.002Z

Sharing.....

2011-12-08T00:02:00.001Z

Soft eye...

2011-12-06T22:53:00.000Z

Just realised I hadn't posted on Monday so you get two for one today........

All lit up......love these defiant leaves that refuse to let go and add little spots of colour on an otherwise bleak day......

2011-12-06T10:23:00.001Z

Gold but cold.......

Season's Greetings.....

2011-12-04T08:17:00.000Z

It's hard to believe we are at this time of year again, where do the months fly. This year hasn't been the greatest so in a sense I'm happy it's nearing it's end. But, if nothing else I'm an optimist so I'm ready to grasp the new year with both hands with the feeling it will be the best yet. I'd just like to take this oppertunity to thank you all for the lovely comments you've left in this past year. They continue to give me encouragement when things get a little wobbly or when self doubt whispers in my ear.....THANK YOU :))

Time now to get Christmas started...........

2011-12-03T10:15:00.000Z

Art thou the bird whom man loves best

The pious bird with the scarlet breast

Our little Robin;

The bird that comes about our doors

When Autumn winds are sobbing!

~ William Wordsworth ~

Mini Mammoth a work in progress........

2011-12-02T15:13:00.000Z

Have to say I've struggled a bit with this one this morning feel a bit rusty. The only way to combat that is to paint more. Less time spent on the computer looking at how everyone else paints and more time spent focusing on my own should help....smile.

Busy day but scraped together a work in progress...

2011-12-01T22:39:00.000Z

Been a busy day today but I was determined to at least put pencil to paper, if not paint. The outcome a rough pencil drawing sealed with burnt sienna.Those of you who are familar with my blog will most likely know the subject matter of the work in progress. Without me giving away any clues....smile. I know from emails and comments that you enjoyed his stories and shared in my sorrow when he lost his brave fight. I have many photos and doodles of the little big man but until now I couldn't motivate myself to paint him again....until tonight. For those who haven't had the pleasure of Dougals charm below is one I did earlier. There will be a few works in progress over the comings days/weeks...just to keep you on your toes. So you'll just have to keep looking in......:)

St Andrew's Day.....

2011-11-30T11:40:00.000Z

O Scotia! my dear, my native soil,

For whom my warmest wish to heaven is sent;

Long may thy hardy sons of rustic toil

Be blest with health, and peace, and sweet content'

~Robert Burns~

Thistle....

2011-11-29T20:11:00.000Z

Sunshine on a cold wet day

2011-11-28T19:33:00.000Z

Was having a tidy and found an old disc full off photos. They were taken with my old Samsung point and shoot. Not as good as my Canon but this shot brought a bit off sunshine on a cold wet day.
Hope it brings some sunshine into your day.

Making up the four....

2011-11-27T18:27:00.001Z

"End of The Day" Acrylic 6x6 £150- made up the four that I took to Edinburgh today. The Christmas exhibtion opens at the Torrance Gallery next Saturday and runs through till the 14th January. Edinburgh was basked in sunshine but with a bitter cold wind, shops were starting to look festive. Can't think where the year has gone!
Thanks for looking in.....I'll be back soon.

Kiss Kiss

2011-11-26T11:44:00.000Z

"Sail Past" Acrylic 6x6 off to Edinburgh

2011-11-25T14:53:00.000Z

"Sail Past" Acrylic 6x6 £150- is one of four heading to Edinburgh for the Torrance Gallery's Christmas Show. Been catching up with paperwork and priming some boards today, not my favourite past time but has to be done. Might manage some scibbling with a pencil later. It is bitter cold outside today with high winds and heavy showers, winter is biting. Been a sad couple of days as my Aunt Margaret died early Wednesday morning. Have been expecting it as she had been poorly this past fornight but it still knocks you sideways. She had celebrated her 90th birthday this year so had a good life. Tuesday's will seem odd without chatting to her on the phone.
I think a mug of hot chocolate is just what the doctor ordered and a biccy too. Stay warm where ever you are and have a great weekend.

"Fading Light" Acrylic 6x8

2011-11-24T16:32:00.001Z

"Fading Light" Acrylic 6x8 £190- unframed from the studio. Not even a hint of snow here at the moment this is inspired by images I took last year. I love the winter skies most especially as the day closes down. I loved to stand in the yard looking over the fields watching the light fade and the lights from the town starting to sparkle. Now that could be an idea for another painting....smile. I miss tucking Tara in for the night at this time of year. Her waiting for me at the gate, her breath in the air. The soft melodic sound of her eating and the sweet smell of hay.
Thanks for looking in.......

Happy Thanksgiving..........

2011-11-23T20:59:00.000Z

Met this impressive ram yesterday along with a few of his family. Quite a handsome fella don't you think!

Wishing all my friends across the Pond a wonderful and Happy Thanksgiving tomorrow....enjoy!

For each new morning with it's light

For rest and shelter of the night

For health and food, for love and friends

For everything thy goodness sends

~Ralph Waldo Emmerson~

"Gold in the Snow" is off too Edinburgh........

2011-11-22T22:44:00.001Z

"Gold in the Snow" Acrylic 6x8 £225 is one of four paintings heading for the Torrance Gallery's Christmas Exhibition. It opens in Edinburgh on 3rd December and runs through till 14th January 2012. All these festive paintings and photos are helping to make it feel a little more like Christmas. The weather we've been having lately is not the norm for this time of year a staggering 11 - 15C. No doubt it's just lulling us into a sense of security and the snow shovels will be coming out of storage soon.

Keep warm where ever you are :)

2011-11-21T20:46:00.000Z

"The countenance is the portrait of the soul,and the eyes mark it's intentions" ~ Cicero

Scary.....

2011-11-20T23:49:00.000Z

......just 33 days to Christmas!

A brand new ending........

2011-11-19T12:45:00.001Z

"Though no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending." ~Anon

I like the above quote it sums up just how I've been feeling about my blog of late. I've chopped and changed it quite a bit in the short time I've been blogging, not too mention adding more blogs along the way. In the process it's lost it's way....or I've lost mine. So starting from now it'll be what it was always intended to be (and was at the beginning) one blog, about me sharing my art, my photos and my thoughts....

The above painting "Winter's Chill" Acrylic 6x8 £225- is one of four paintings that will be in the Torrance Gallery's Christmas Exhibition running from 3rd December - 14th January 2012. Edinburgh is a beautiful city come Christmas time and a great place to do your Christmas shopping while taking in the many festive gallery shows.......you can take my word for it.
Thanks for dropping by :)

From the archives........"The Big Freeze" Acrylic 6x8 sold

2011-11-15T08:10:00.000Z

"To be interested in the changing seasons is a happier state of mind than to be hopelessly in love with spring" ~ George Santayana

2011-11-11T23:36:00.000Z

Your silent tents of green

We deck with fragrant flowers;

Yours has the suffering been;

The memory shall be ours

~ Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

"End of the Day" Acrylic 6x6

2011-11-10T12:16:00.000Z

"End of the Day"
Acrylic 6x6 (on board)
£100- unframed
Available.....contact me.

I've been beating my head off a brick wall this morning ( I guess that's why I now have a hellish headache) trying to get the photo match the painting....to no avail. The painting has a lovely soft glow which I just can't achieve on here. You will just have to take my word for it when I say the painting is much better up close and personal than on here.....smile.
Thanks for looking in.....

"Honey" Acrylic 6x6

2011-11-07T14:53:00.004Z

"Honey"

Acrylic 6x6 (on board)

£80- unframed

**Wee Moo Collection*

Available contact me.

Managed to get the next member of the wee herd finished and I'm happy with the outcome. Was a few times in the process that I thought I was going to lose her lovely soft features. But, think I've pulled it off, her lovely dark eyes under those long lashes are the clincher.

Thanks as always for popping in.......

P.S Just realised I forgot her ear tags......hope DEFRA aren't looking in lol.

FROM THE LENS..........

2011-11-06T14:06:00.000Z

"There is a privacy about it which no other season gives you. In spring, summer and fall people sort of have an open season on each other; only in winter, in the country, can you have longer, quiet stretches, when you can savor belonging to yourself" ~ Ruth Stout

November

2011-11-04T10:23:00.003Z

"November comes
And November goes,
With the last red berries
And the first white snows.

With night coming early,
And dawn coming late,
And ice in the bucket
And frost by the gate.

The fires burn
And the kettles sing,
And earth sinks to rest
Until next spring."- Elizabeth Coatsworth

Aberfeldy Christmas Exhibition opens 5th November.......

2011-11-02T07:58:00.000Z

I hate to say it but Christmas will soon be apon us. And to prove it the Aberfeldy Gallery opens their Christmas Exhibition this coming Saturday 5th November. Situated in a beautiful part of Perthshire you could combine a visit to the gallery while taking in the stunning views still glowing with autumn colours. I'm delighted to be exhibiting the foursome below, rubbing shoulders with some top Scottish artists. I believe the exhibtiion goes live on the gallery's website from tomorrow.

"Silver Sands" Acrylic 6x6 £150-

"The Burn" Acrylic 6x6 £150-

"Hurry Home" Acrylic 6x6 £150-

"After The Rain" Acrylic 6x6 £150-

Thanks as always for looking in........

"Honey" a work in progress

2011-11-01T20:31:00.000Z

" Honey" above is next to join the herd in the Wee Moo Collection. She's still a work in progress at the moment but I'm already loving her sweet face. Honey is one of the cows that lived next door to Tara and I've seen her grow from a tiny wee calf to being a Mum herself this year. Her wee calf might just join the Moo Collection later or maybe even get a spot of his own as a larger piece.

Putting the garden to sleep for winter.......

2011-10-26T20:11:00.000+01:00

Been enjoying time (between the rain) in the garden as it gets ready to sleep for a few months

"Soft September" Acrylic 6x6

2011-10-25T11:52:00.000+01:00

"Soft September"
Acrylic 6x6 (on board)
£150-
£100- unframed

September and October to me are the soft months, misty foggy mornings and the vibrance of the grasses and leaves drop a notch. Just loved this hawthorn hedge with its leaves just on the turn but my favourite peice is the misty trees in the distance so typical of this time of year.
Thanks for looking in.

Finished sketch.....

2011-10-24T23:10:00.000+01:00

Finished the wee sketch this evening, well as finished as it's going to get. I've enjoyed getting back to the roots. Just a piece of paper and a pencil. Felt quite alien to begin with, but you soon get in the groove and time just fritters past.
Talking about time passing this afternoon I went up to visit Andra, the second time since I lost Tara. Oh I've passed the yard often on my travels as a happy snapper but I popped in today. He's looking great for his age but informed me that this will be his last winter.........he's told me that for the last ten winters...LOL!

2011-10-21T23:21:00.001+01:00

"Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant" ~ Robert Louis Stevenson.

Trees...........

2011-10-20T22:35:00.000+01:00

"There is always music amongst the trees in the garden, but our hearts must be quiet to hear it" ~ Minnie Aumonier

"Wild Bouquet" Acrylic 6x8

2011-10-17T15:29:00.004+01:00

"Wild Bouquet"
Acrylic 6x8 (on board)
£190- unframed (shipping free)
£225- framed

A little bit of summer to take the edge off the horrible rain and wind battering us at the moment. I love finding these little pockets of wild flowers. These were on my morning walks growing alongside the path. I love the contrast between the shadow and light.

2011-10-16T22:24:00.000+01:00

"In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks" ~ John Muir

2011-10-15T00:06:00.000+01:00

I miss her kind eye and warm welcome............

Invitations are out for the Aberfeldy Gallery Christmas Show.....

2011-10-13T21:07:00.001+01:00

Invitations for the preview of the Aberfeldy Gallery's Christmas Exhibition next month would be dropping through letter boxes today. Thought you would like to see some of the lovely paintings that will be taking part.... Click on image for larger view.

I'm Watching You..........

2011-10-12T23:08:00.000+01:00

Ok I admit it......withdrawl symptoms set in today, I do miss posting on my blog. I have been having a great time clearing out rubbish artwork that should never be allowed to see the light of day again. Add to that shredding papers that I seem to have been collecting since god knows when....have to say it has a calming effect. Unfortunately the weather has been awful so haven't managed to get into the garden. I'm keeping my fingers crossed next week will at least be dry and I can get my grass cut for the last time this year. Some of the pieces that were on hardboard/MDF I've recycled...as in chopped into smaller pieces and gessoed. The above is what is left of one of the few portraits I've done. I actually turned it over to chop it up so as she wasn't looking at me...lol. Was a surprise when I came to gesso the pieces that her face was still complete. Being a proper softy I just couldn't white those eyes out so she now sits on the corner of the book shelve watching me.
Have also been painting....some good, some yeugh....it feels like a holiday and a slower pace, that can only be a good thing....bye for now!

Time Off......

2011-10-07T17:04:00.000+01:00

This is the sight that greeted me this morning....what a view to wake too!

Something out of the sketchbook

I've been a bit sparse in my posts of late, as my work has been a bit iffy. Plus it feels as if I'm just posting for the sake of posting. So, I'm going to step back for a bit, shut down the computer, do other stuff, kinda like a holiday, if I can remember what they are. Just enjoy my art for my sake, not that I mind sharing with you all but you know what I mean...I hope...smile. Freda the Friesian sadly succumbed to the curse of the 'work in progress'. She'll be one of the art for my sake projects, along with lots of doodling and generally finding my lost muse. The doodle above doesn't come under 'work in progress' so she's safe. I'm of now for something tasty for dinner and maybe a wee glass of wine. Will be back end of October beginning of November, sounds forever away but will fly in. Don't get into any mischief when I'm not here and most of all don't forget me when I'm gone....smile!

New Moo started......

2011-10-02T22:55:00.000+01:00

Been a quick weekend...aren't they always! Did manage to get started on a new moo today called Freda. I love the big splodge of white on her forehead. Might have finished her if I hadn't been engrossed with the racing from Longchamp. One of these years me and my camera are heading there for the colour, style and excitement of the Arc meeting........

Doodled a bit more.....

2011-10-01T21:43:00.000+01:00

.......think it's working, feeling a lot more relaxed, might just doodled for a bit longer :))

When all else fails...........

2011-10-01T08:05:00.000+01:00

.........grab a piece of paper, a pencil and a rubber. Don't think just doodle......

My brain seems to be on holiday.......could be doodling for a wee while :))

Colour, Light and Soaring temperatures

2011-09-28T20:40:00.001+01:00

Had a wonderful day today delivering my work for the upcoming Save The Children Art Exhibition. The venue is the lovely Maclaurin Galleries situated in Rozelle Park. Today couldn'dt have been a better day to visit the park, can you believe it 25C in September, in Scotland. I've been to Rozelle many times and always enjoy but there was a magic there today. Vibrant colours and fantastic light it was like being set loose in a chocolate factory....see for yourself......

Inspiration......

2011-09-26T21:06:00.001+01:00

"Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life" ~ Pablo Picasso

What a glorious day it's been here and if the weather forecast is anything to go by there's more to come. An Indian Summer some say. Well, time will tell but I made the best of it by getting out and about gathering up inspiration.

You will also have noticed a little a spot of decorating on the Blog thought the walls needed a little brightening up. To a bright new future.....smile.

Quiet day in the studio......

2011-09-25T11:52:00.000+01:00

........wrapping paintings for up and coming exhibitions. "Quiet Space" and "Morning Sun" are off to the Maclaurin Galleries, Ayr on Wednesday. There's a nice little tea room at Rozelle House next door or perhaps a wee visit to Dobbies Garden Centre. Then following Thursday it's handing in for the Retail Trust Art Exhibition, "Hazy Lazy", "Changing" and "Sketch of a Bull Calf" are taking part in that one. It's at Pollockshields Burgh Halls situated in Maxwell Park. I love a wee walk round the park and a visit to the pond, more beautiful autumn colours. And off course while delivering I'll have a chat with artist friends.

"Quiet Space"
Acrylic 16x16 £500-

"Morning Sun"
Acrylic 6x8 £225-

"Hazy, Lazy"
Acrylic 8x8 £250-

"Changing"
Acrylic 6x6 £150-

"Sketch of a Bull Calf"
Acrylic 6x8 £200-

Autumn......

2011-09-24T12:11:00.001+01:00

Rusted

Golden Morn

Heavy Skies

Sycamore Pods

Sharing

Winter Woollies

Snug

Amber Eye

Me and my camera had a lovely couple of hours this morning taking in the start of Autumns colours. Clouded over once or twice and there were two or three spits of rain, but nothing could dampen my spirit at my favourite time of year.

Enjoy some of the sights..........

"Shadow" Acrylic 6x6

2011-09-23T12:49:00.001+01:00

"Shadow"
Acrylic 6x6 ( on board)
£80- unframed (shipping free)
**Wee Moo Collection**

Took reference photographs of this pretty boy last week and managed to get myself bogged down doing it. Was most embarrassing for a seasoned country girl like me to end up well and truly stuck in the sheugh. Sheugh by the way, for you non Scots is a scottish word for a grass verge on a country road or a ditch. I should have known with all the rain we had been having it was going to be a bit soggy. Sunday morning, first thing, which meant there wasn't another living soul for miles around. Off course all the moos arrived at the gate for a look and a laugh, plus two wee accusing furball faces at the back window. After a few attempts trying to go back then forward with no traction either way I noticed a bundle of old feed bags. Just the ticket, stuffed them front and behind the wheel and prayed. Bit of a slither and I was on firm ground, not very clean mind you but free. Needless to say I won't be doing that again in a hurry lol.
Got some good photos though so all was not lost. And the end result is a nice wee painting for the moo collection. Quite sure this fella is an Aberdeen cross, though he might just be full Aberdeen.
Thanks for looking in.....

Elizabeth
emccrindleart@hotmail.co.uk

2011-09-23T06:38:00.000+01:00

"Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking successive autumns." ~ George Eliot

"Ivan" Acrylic 6x6...plus Facebook changes

2011-09-22T15:13:00.003+01:00

"Ivan"

Acrylic 6x6 (on board)

£80- unframed (shipping free)

**Wee Moo Collection**

Poor Ivan has been in limbo for almost a week with only half a face....say awwww. Just been an up and down week one way or another. I'm really happy with how Ivan has turned out and look forward to doing more 'Wee Coos'. Did I say before that the wee coos are having a collection in their own right. All Wee Coos and all 6x6 so to start them off, I've decided to do a special offer on them. From now until Hogmanay, or 31st December to the only person on the planet who doesn't know, I'll be selling these at £80 (normal price is £100-). Add to that free shipping (worldwide) and I think you've got a great excuse to start/or add to your own art collection. Or you could purchase one as a gift to start someone elses.

At present I do have a Facebook presence but it is more a case of being there because everyone else....does that make me a sheep? I know there have been times on here where I've made my feelings about FB pretty clear. Well I've persevered over the last year and other than meeting some nice people it still hasn't rocked my boat. Yesterday, I would assume in competition with Google+ (which I'm not touching with a barge pole) it changed the goal posts again and has caused much consternation amongst even it's loyal followers. There is every chance that when the dust finally settles, (I hear there are to be further changes) everyone will settle down. I have to be honest and say my first reaction was stuff this I'm off. It's still my second, third and fourth one but I blame that on an Aries/Celtic combination lol. For now I'll do my own little experiment by seeing how much I get done in the freed time I'll have.

Thanks for popping in.

Elizabeth

emccrindleart@hotmail.co.uk

Made a start to my Wee Moo Collection....

2011-09-16T20:05:00.000+01:00

Had hoped to have this one finished today but life got in the way....it has an annoying habit of doing that sometime. For a while now I've been planning on doing a collection of wee moo paintings (as I have a whole stack of reference photos). My answer to Karin Jurick's wonderful mugshot series. First on the easel is this handsome Friesian bullock called Ivan. I don't suppose he actually has a name but he's Ivan to me.

Wee study

2011-09-13T23:26:00.004+01:00

The eagle eyed of you will have noticed a few additions to the tabs at the top of the page. I think it looks nice to have everything under just one Blog. Plus hopefully it'll make it easier for you folks to follow what kind of paintings you like to view without having to scroll through reams of posts. Thoroughly enjoying myself at the moment doing wee studies. Excellant if your trying too loosen your work up. You can expect to be seeing a few more like this :)

~Private Collection UK~

Wet and Windy

2011-09-12T23:06:00.000+01:00

Very wet and windy here today but I just pulled my hat down and my collar up and took my walk. Dogs never even lifted their heads from their beds, for fear I'd take them with me lol. I was rewarded with a little blink of sunshine for my troubles and managed to snap this lone crab apple. The wind is still fairly ripping round the corner of the house as I type this and some of the same is forecast for tomorrow. Summer has bowed her head

Thinking.......

2011-09-10T11:13:00.002+01:00

Think left and think right and think low and think high. Oh, the thinks you can think up if only you try! ~Dr. Seuss

"Changing" Acrylic 6x6

2011-09-09T12:01:00.001+01:00

"Changing"

Acrylic 6x6

Retail Trust Exhibition, Pollockshields. 7th-9th October

The subtle changes are starting in the countryside and in the garden. The vibrance of summer is burning itself out and trees, shrubs and grasses are changing their hue. At the moment looking out the studio window everything is dull and dreicht with the rain. But come the first blink of sunshine and the gold that's starting to creep in will lift the view and the spirits.

Whatever the weather is in your part of the world I hope this wee painting will lift your spirt.

Thanks for looking :)

My friend's exhibition previews tomorrow......

2011-09-08T20:16:00.000+01:00

"Sunlight and Shadow, Loch Fyne" by Helen Turner

Thought I'd share about my friend Helen's joint exhibition with Marion Drummond. It previews tomorrow at the Gullane Art Gallery in Gullane East Lothian (near Edinburgh if you don't have a clue). It then runs from 10th September - 2nd October. If you enjoy a feast of colour and light then here's the link to the exhibition....enjoy.... http://www.gullaneartgallery.co.uk/cexhibition.htm

"A Silver Sea" Acrylic 6x6

2011-09-07T23:33:00.000+01:00

"A Silver Sea"

Acrylic 6x6

£120- unframed

There are days when Arran disappears as if someone has pulled a curtain across it. Then there are evenings, when like the magic of Brigadoon it stands huge almost black against the sky, the sea before it a silver shimmer. On evenings like that or on a glorious sunset I can see it's peaks from my studio window, twelve miles away. I'll tackle the sunset another day, today I'll settle for the silver shimmer.

Thanks as always for looking in...........

2011-09-06T22:32:00.000+01:00

"You'll remember me when the west wind moves
Upon the fields of barley
You'll forget the sun in his jealous sky
As we walk in the fields of gold"

Sketch of a Bull Calf Acrylic 6x8

2011-09-05T12:40:00.002+01:00

"Sketch of a Bull Calf"

Acrylic 6x8

£200-

Retail Trust Exhibition, Pollockshields 7th-9th October

Just finished this wee sketch so literally hot off the easel. Took references of this wee guy last year I was attracted to his colouring which was various shades of reds and ochres very autumnal. It's far from perfect but then it isn't supposed to be. It's a rough sketch and a lesson for me in trying to capture the texture of his woollie coat. Always room for improvement but I'm happy and I've learnt something to take on to the next one.

Thanks as always for looking.

Beautiful Sunday......

2011-09-05T10:25:00.000+01:00

.....I know I'm a date late with my title, was too tired last night to do the post. So before my day kicks off I thought I'd post it now. Was going to Dunkeld yesterday to pick up a painting and I couldn't have asked for a nicer day. Before I even got on the road I took the dogs for a spin...autumn is starting to dip it's brush in the paint and there are lots of little pockets of colour starting to pop up here and there.....I just had to share.

Had an equally good time in Dunkeld where the sunshine continued and brought out the best of the countryside. Don't know why they don't put more parking spaces off the motorway where people can stop and take in the views around them. Plus it's very frustrating for artists like me :D

The Atholl Fountain

Hobbit country

Narrow streets of Dunkeld built when cars were few and far between....

Sunkissed parkland

Where talls tree reach into the mountains

Very shy and twitchy deer, zoomed out as far as my wee camera allowed

Thistle wearing it's magical golden bonnet

"Sal" Oil on Board 14x12

2011-09-03T11:09:00.000+01:00

"Sal"

Oils on Board

14x12

Commission

Tweaking all done, a little alteration and stared at for hours.......finally decided it's done. Mind you after photographing it I noticed I hadn't signed it....so much for hours of observation....smile. I do love this portrait, Sal has such a lovely expression and she's been a joy to paint, fingers crossed her Mum loves it too.

Thanks for looking in, hope you have a lovely weekend. I'm off to try and recover a bull calf from the uglies....wish me luck :)

Made some progress.......

2011-09-02T23:19:00.000+01:00

Had other things to contend with this week but had fully intended getting this wee study finished today. Best laid plans and all that someone popped in for a chat so didn't get started till later on the day. Hope to get back to it tomorrow.......

Study of a bull calf

2011-08-29T00:46:00.000+01:00

Have been faffing about and really should have posted this before midnight, so think on this having been started on Sunday. Been eager to get started on some wee coo paintings for quite a while now, so this is the start of more to come. Maybe even a whole series. A rather chunky bull calf, pretty happy with the rough study so looking forward to getting back to it in the morning

Strange day today......

2011-08-26T22:16:00.000+01:00

....weatherwise it started great, sunny and just perfect for my walk and foraging for inspiration.

Managed to find some very friendly cows...thinking about a whole series of coo paintings......

Even friendlier was this darling Welsh who gave me such a welcome when she saw me...there were shades of Cathy and Heathcliff as she came galloping across her paddock neighing at the top of her voice. The temptation was great but sadly, small and perfectly formed though she was she just didn't fit in the boot of the car......

It went downhill after that, heavy rain plus nasty thunder and lightening electricity went of for a few hours which meant I didn't get time at the easel...ho hum. Where ever you are I hope the weather is being kind to you and that you have a great weekend

2011-08-25T15:16:00.000+01:00

"I roamed the countryside searching for answers to things I did not understand" ~ Leonardo da Vinci

"Quiet Space" Acrylic 16x16

2011-08-24T22:31:00.000+01:00

"Quiet Space"

Acrylic 16x16

£500-

After taking care of chores that we artists have to do. Like go to the supermarket to replenish the bare cupboards. I finally managed to finish of the seascape I've been working on, well more of a beach scape. My apologies for the photograph, without blowing my own trumpet it doesn't do the piece justice. It is earmarked for the up and coming Save The Children Exhibition at the Maclaurin Galleries, where along with the other paintings there I hope it finds a new home and helps this wonderful organisation. Thanks for the title of the piece goes to Janey Lazenby one of my artist friends on Facebook who left some name suggestions and a lovely comment...thanks again Janey.

This evening sees the preview of Art Off The Square in Kilbarchan, commitments at home mean I won't manage but as it looks like being a beautiful evening I'm sure it will draw in quite a crowd.

I saw this wee guy this morning on my walk. Perched on top of one of those enormous round bales that pop up every where now ( bring back wee bales) , I couldn't resist snapping his picture. Isn't it funny at times when you do something a memory floods back. I was smiling to myself at the scale of this tiny wee bird against the round bale. A memory of another day came into my mind of me as a wee girl of about six at a family outing at Kilmaurs Show. I was feeling really chuffed with myself having managed to get myself in the saddle of a show jumper while it was waiting for it's class to start. It belonged to someone my Papa knew and I felt like Elizabeth Taylor on The Pie in the Grand National beaming from ear to ear, my Papa turned to my Mum and said "Look at her she's like a pea on a piano"......a bit like that wee bird.......smile

More Progress

2011-08-23T22:17:00.000+01:00

Made some progress on this one this afternoon so thought I'd post it too. The blues are not quite as intense in the original as here but it's a beggar to photograph. Hoping to get it finished tomorrow by adding somemore sparkle to the right hand side. Then I'll have to think of a name for it....that's sometimes the hardest part :)

"Morning Sun" Acrylic 6x8

2011-08-23T16:46:00.001+01:00

"Morning Sun"

Acrylic 6x8

£225-

This is one of my favourite spots on the countrywalk. It's a view from what I call the metal bridge, truth is the only metal part is the railing across the top. I've probably mentioned before but the countrywalk I take most mornings was originally a railway line. The bridge I cross now is new and the remnants of the old bridge can still be seen from it, though nature is reclaiming it bit by bit. This group of trees sit at the end of the field where theres a turn in the burn, the heavy growth along the bank means you can't actually see the burn in this painting but I think it still has a feel of it being there (or perhaps it's because I know its there). I love the way the morning sun catches the lighter tree and the shadows of the other trees on the field. This one will be taking it's place at the Save The Children Exhibition alongside the other one I'm working on....

This morning I was trying to capture the spider's webs on a patch of wild flowers that are winding down for the year. The webs never came out the way I wanted but look what I found hiding in amongst the flowers.....a ladybird...made my day :)

Changes....

2011-08-22T22:57:00.000+01:00

The changes have been subtle but they have begun. On my walks over the weekend I noticed a stillness that's hard to put a finger on. But when you really look the signs are there, the trees look a little more tired, though they haven't been at their best this year (bitter cold winds in April burnt the fresh new leaves). The wild flowers are out of control and spent, though still beautiful in a wizened kind of way. Then theres the birds gobbling up what's left of the seeds.

The top photo of Arran does nothing to capture how it looked in real time, there are days when you can't see it and others when it feels I could reach out and touch it. The colours are changing and as an artist I'm looking forward to capturing it......then sharing it.

PS Doesn't that rooster think he's the bees knees

Quiet day in the garden.......

2011-08-21T12:19:00.003+01:00

"Many things grow in the garden that are never sown there" ~ Thomas Fuller