There has been so much ‘making’ this December (pressing ceramics and printing personalised cards) it’s a relief to be able to share some actual painting. Here is a new canvas inspired by Pickering Castle. A fairly straight-forward scene looking along a path that leads to the gatehouse entrance. It was created as a gift for Rebecca and James’ wonderful wedding earlier this year. The castle is where they became engaged and Rebecca provided me with a perfect photo to get started. It included this lovely warming sun on the horizon line and lots of nice detail in the brickwork. Plenty to get both the expressive brush and fine-liner stuck into!
To add a little height to the composition I pulled in the magnificent twisting tree that sits to the right hand side. I also added the branches above and tried to point them towards the glow beyond the left hand turret. It’s a subtle piece… but I am pleased with the warm and peaceful feel.
‘Pickering Castle’ (2024) acrylic and ink on 30 x 30cm canvas. Presented in a white floater frame.
I’ve not had the pleasure of visiting Pickering Castle myself. The spectacular 13th century North Yorkshire castle was used by a succession of medieval kings as a royal hunting lodge and holiday home. Here’s my Timelapse capture of the painting stage…
As always, I love to hear your suggestions, so please get in touch with those interesting places you have discovered! If you’d like to find me online: https://linktr.ee/illustrationbyjonathan. And of course, if you are interested in commissioning a painting like ‘Pickering Castle’ please do check out my private commission guide.
