Just a few sketches from this week’s visit to my favourite stomping ground … Thornham salt marsh on the Norfolk coast. In celebration of the Queen’s jubilee a new bench has been conveniently sited facing out to sea along the creek. HM had her photo taken on her new bench recently with some of the villagers (Sandringham is nearby).
Thornham salt marsh
It’s a popular spot for locals to rest, but despite the bright sunlight there was a cold northeasterly (there has been most of the year so far), and I had the bench to myself for an hour and could spread out. What a luxury not to be perched on a cold rock or on my waterproof mat on a tussock of grass trying not to lose my brushes or pencils in the grass. I’ll be getting soft 🙂
Emerging sun, Thornham Creek.
There was a very low tide… I’ve never seen the mud in the creeks so dry and pale. The blonde smudge of sand reflecting the sun across the near horizon seemed larger and closer than I’ve seen it before, with the channel marker posts standing out clearly.
Changing light, Thornham.
Mari French RI : contemporary artworks 
Your description here is so vivid and these sketches whet my appetite to see the finished paintings; also, whilst I read your post I am sitting next to you on the Queens seat, a grassy knoll or a cold rock.
ps. with your mention of cold winds and after having experienced a cold southerly today on our jolly jaunt, I am now wondering how you would interpret the landscapes that we drove through this weekend on our 4wd excursion.
it’s lovely it has that effect Sam. so pleased you enjoyed it. it would be amazing to have the chance to paint in Australia. have been feeling a little jaded lately, so probably need a change of scene to jolt my inspiration. have you thought any more recently about your own creative urges?