​A busy day painting away from the madding crowds. The first picture shows a quick watercolour study to get an idea of the composition. The second one is painted in acrylic to try out the colour scheme.
Now everything is laid out ready to start; a canvas, biscuits and a drink.
I started by adding the light colours, with a larger palette knife, contrasting the opposite colours orange and blue.
Next I added some darks, to complete my layout, before blocking in the top third.
Then I finished the land before moving on to the water and reflections. 
Finally turning it over to complete the water at the front.
After putting it the right way up I stood back to get a better feel for the painting before adding details and final touches.
A nice reminder of a pleasant day spent  around Heaton Park.

Went to Bury Art gallery for a look at the present exhibitions and happened to look in a book on the way out featuring Northwest Artists. I was surprised to find myself featured among many of the famous names. Also I had heard about another artist, with the same name, but from the 19th century  and I didn't realise that his paintings were in the same collection or that he had painted locally. Left the gallery feeling really elated.

A chance to paint again after a busy few weeks. Had a nice walk around Light Oaks Park and was struck by the Autumn colours. I collected reference material and hope to get a few paintings from these. 
Started by adding the lights as the low sun hitting behind the trees and the long shadows seemed to make a good composition. Then added some autumn colours to start defining the areas. Next the darks were added at the top to give the idea of the tree canopy. Finally all the details checking the canvas was covered. Hope I have captured something of the day.

Lots of interesting galleries to visit as well as a walk around the area and Bourbon street. A wide variety of styles and some fascinating artwork.