Saturday 19 July 2014

Putting things into perspective at Bolton Abbey



Without doubt Bolton Abbey in Wharfedale is one of the most beautiful historic monuments in the UK as well as Yorkshire.

Set amongst tall majestic trees spreading their branches as if to protect the Abbey from further harm, they shield many aspects of the ancient stones from view and compliment the abbey with further soft shapes and form. Within the abbey itself The tall gallery of windows with their beautifully proportioned spanning arches set between the external buttresses along the ruined naives were just great to paint and draw.


After exploring the ruins, explaining different compositional options both close up and afar, and explains how to solve all those challenging compositional elements in perspective from lots do different view points, everyone soon settled in with their painting.



Painting opposite the abbey on the other side of the river sheltered by trees, first for the sun and then the cool breeze, was a really good choice so everyone could enjoy their painting whatever the weather decided to do.

Everyone created some great studies with pen, watercolour and pastel throughout the day exploring the wonderful scale, proportionate light and shade through the abbey.

A monumental workshop had by all with all artists further developing their drawing and painting observational skills so much more. 


A great day had by all in so many ways. One for the diary next year for sure!

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