Today is only the second time I have given up on a walk (if you don’t count the decision not to go to the end of the Ness of Burgi). There have been several days when I have decided to stay put and work inside. I have even had a day off. I planned second day off today, but didn’t get very far. Encased from head to toe in waterproofs, I set off to walk the mile-and-a-bit to the bus stop. Within 200 yards it was obvious that a], I wouldn’t get there without being blown over and b], I wouldn’t get back afterwards. Ah, farewell to the joys of the Shetland Museum, the coffee at Hays Dock Café, and the gastronomic delights of the Co-Op in Lerwick. Here I am back up in the eyrie, watching the weather sweep in from every direction at once.
My shortest walk to date was made on March 14th.: the sketchbook page is blank apart from the date, the weather report (gale force wind and driving rain) and the statement “15 paces and give up”.
Now, I’m back inside and thinking small, which is a challenge for someone who has got used to the extravagant gesture and the splashing of paint. I don’t have the patience required for true illustration:
Perhaps I could try some tiny etchings when I get home. For now, I am planning some 5cm x 5cm linocuts based on the footpaths and field markings , which have to be simple as I don’t have the tools for very fine cutting. Proofs taken by rubbing with graphite stick – messy, but not as bad as ink and rollers.
