July 9

First day, new adventure. I awoke to this view outside my window. (I have a private room in the home.) I was having imposter syndrome last night and now I have princess syndrome - if there is such a thing.

I spent the morning walking around sketching and getting settled into my studio. I feel like I have already over-used the word “lovely” but it best describes every view, space and encounter with the staff and fellow residents.

I have come with the only one intention - to play in my studio. To get a sense of this new environment and experiment with materials. I know that I am most at home at the edge of the sea but this opportunity will push me to re-think line, shape and color. Recently, I have been working with found wood (see Towers) and was curious if by using three dimensional materials, would I approach the landscape differently in painting. I certainly have!

These are a few studies I did at Bunathirhir Bay— a familiar painting spot when a resident at Ballinglen Arts Foundation in Ballycastle in 2017 and 2018. I am definitely seeing shape/form differently. Who knows what will be next?

I do know that we are served dinner every night at 7PM which fortunately won’t change no matter what pickle I might find myself in in the studio. It is comforting to know we are in such good care here. Great food and conversation. It’s lovely.