It’s been almost 10 years since I painted my first snowy view of Winchester Cathedral. ’Winchester by Cathedral Light’ was part of my first set of Christmas cards and has remained a big part of my seasonal offering ever since. It wasn’t a particularly detailed study. But as is often the case with painting I think the piece was successful because the colours were impressionistic. It simply captured a quicker emotional response to the subject. The Cathedral shop got in touch recently, with an interest in stocking some of my illustrated items… obviously with a particular interest in those painterly pieces featuring the Cathedral. But they were also keen on the ceramic decorations that i’ve been making here in the studio. It seemed like a perfect opportunity to revisit that Cathedral facade and make a new painting. I’ve called it ‘Cathedral Snowfall’.
I tried very hard not to look back at that original piece; as I wanted to take as fresh a look as possible at the subject. It’s just fascinating to see how much my work has changed over a decade. It really doesn’t feel like my approach is any different; but of course it is. It’s easy to forget how far you travel and the experience you gain along the way.
Time-lapse in the Snow
‘Cathedral Snowfall’ was painted with my usual acrylic and ink combination onto Seawhite acrylic paper. I captured a time-lapse, although it doesn’t include the line-work stage. I’m not always sure whether to included that fiddly part of the process. Can you see the difference it makes to the scene when sped up like that… but I love how the lines can pull shapes out of those expressive colours. I’ll have to find a better way of capturing that for future videos.
After scanning the new design has been sent off to the printers. Tree decorations, Cards and calendars on the way and hopefully both of these illustrations (old and new) will be featured in the Cathedral shop soon.
Which Cathedral do you think I should go festive with next? I’ve painted quite a few of them for various projects; but none have been Wintery scenes. I’ve been mulling over a Durham, Salisbury or York Minster… which one would get your vote for an atmospheric Christmas illustration? Please let me know or leave your own suggestion in the comment box below!