I made this poppy sketch last week, it’s inspired by a previous work of art painted by our daughter when she was just a few years old. Here is the original piece, framed and waiting to be hung on our wall.
Keira’s art, and poppies are some of the enduring inspiration I take with me on my artistic adventures. They resurfaced again recently as part of the free art project, and several people have kindly bought poppy sketches from me over the past year and a half (have I really been selling art for that long already?).
The free art project has been the most fascinating part of my art adventure so far. Since April 2016 I have painted and given away well over 50 small art works. I make them, and leave them in the local area for people to find. There are a few exceptions – pieces made and left on my travels – but nearly all the art works have been placed in and around my home town of Wallington, and neighbouring Carshalton, Beddington, and Roundshaw. The project has caught on, with me and other folks in the area in a way I still find hard to imagine. In its own small way it connects me to the community in which I’ve lived most of my life, in a way I’d never previously thought possible.
One of the ways our community chooses to stay together is through something called The Spirit of Wallington awards. They take place tonight, and the free art project is a finalist (still can’t quite believe it). I’ll be in the air – heading to Dubai for a few days to work, so I will miss the event this evening. Thankfully, Carole and Keira have kindly agreed to go on my behalf and join in a celebration of good people and good things, which bring us together. Thank yo to everyone who supports the free art project, I appreciate the motivation and encouragement. I hope everyone has a fantastic time this evening and I look forward to hearing all about it when I get back.
