A commission in Ramsbury

Last year I was asked to make a painting in Ramsbury, Wiltshire and spent a couple of days around the village drawing and painting in watercolour. My favourite spot was this ford and footbridge on Mill Lane. I loved the rippled water overhung by willow trees and the dappled light breaking through behind the bridge. Back home in the studio I worked up some drawings before embarking on a large canvas.

As often happens, I begin with energy and love the bold freedom- the textures and colour were a joy to paint. And then I hit the point where I don’t know how to continue - time to step away from the easel. I left it hanging for some months on the studio wall, considering the next moves. At this stage it’s not resolved, but I don't want to overwork. Eventually I found a plan, felt ready to continue and pushed through to a finish.

It's always a bit nerve-racking delivering a commission, though I never want clients to feel committed to having the work. What we like is such a personal thing, but it seemed to work and sits well on their wall.