I love trees and we often walk in the country in order to enjoy the peaceful, green spaces. And we had a stroll around Cannon Hall Park and Gardens yesterday to have a look at the restoration of the Georgian walled garden. You see, the park finally acquired the cash to restore some of the original features. For example, the 60’s style rectangular pond and pergola was replaced by a beautiful round lily pond. And the old glasshouses that grow the famous 200 year old grapevine are being restored too. However, the work is not quite finished . And when it is, I’ll write a post all about it .
I love trees
But yesterday , I simply enjoyed being in the formal garden. As you know, I love trees and I’m always attracted to drawing them when I’m out plein air sketching. The sketch above was completed in 20 minutes using a super dark pen, a fineliner and a wash of black watercolour. In fact, I sat on a low wall right under the tree. And the markings on the bark and the shadows cast by the foliage of the tree itself were quite fascinating up close .
Some other trees
The Tree in the Park
Actually, I feel quite affectionate towards this drawing. Because it was the first urban sketch I did back in May, when we were at last allowed to go to the town park .
To be honest, I don’t think I have shown this sketch before. As I have already said, I love trees and at all times of the year too! So this is a tiny pen and watercolour sketch I painted at Wentworth Castle Gardens last year.
I Love Trees – Even in a Spooky Wood !
Finally, I couldn’t resist showing you one of my favourite acrylic paintings. Obviously, this is what happens when I just let my imagination go wild! You could see another abstracted tree in this post here . But, these paintings and drawings have one thing in common – they are all inspired by trees.
Oh, the woods hold so many trees with such character, and you have done great portraits of them in your sketches. Those are usually the ones that are weathered or dying though. I think it’s important to get to know them so our artwork can get beyond the “I will just put a tree over here” phase. I know I tend to make my trees too perfect at times, with graceful branches and straight trunks. I should get out and do some real trees.
Thank you ! As you say, I suppose we are usually drawn to the trees with a bit of a past . I agree that you might enjoy going out more to draw – it’s good for the soul !
I went out in the backyard with watercolors for a while…and although nothing great got painted, it was a peaceful chance to get some sunshine
I love the character you have captured in the old tree Margaret. I love sketching trees too they talk to you don’t they
Thank you! What a lovely way to put it and I agree, they do talk !
Lovely tonality and texture on the ink and wash sketch, Margaret
Thank you so much . Sometimes I think a quick sketch captures texture better than a longer effort. And the tones are much easier when you are right in front of the subject.
They are such good models too! Love your work, Margaret!
This is true – they never move ! Thank you, Tiffany.
I couldn’t agree more that trees are a great subject in art.
I’ve always assumed trees as alive, and therefore, they frequently are at the center of my art, as well.
Great post!
Thank you, Inese. Yes, I agree – trees are alive. Like you, I like to include them in my art.