The Leas, Sheppey.

As you can see, I have finally painted the beach scene (promised in my recent 'Moody Sheppey' post). Partly from Rita's encouragement, I have stayed with watercolour rather than my original intention of using acrylics. Watercolour takes on more of a life of its own giving a greater feeling of spontaneity but at the expense of a degree of control - you can see that the dark reflections have bled into the wet wash a bit too much (especially with the middle poles). I think I was too impatient to put these in and needed to let the wash dry for a few more moments. But I am pleased with the sparkle effect which helps to provide extra contrast with the distance. This was achieved by leaving the whole thing to dry off completely then rubbing lightly over the surface in places, with some fine-grade sandpaper. The best part of painting this though, was that it took me right back to the day I was there. I could still see in my mind flocks of Brent Geese in the distance and Sanderlings on the tideline (both of which you'll just have to imagine!). Plus of course, the aura of rather dull winter light that we get here in England this time of year.