13th August 2020

All kinds of weather had been forecast (or should that be prophesied, because not much science seems to be involved) for this morning's visit to Abbey Farm in Hoxne, from downpours to thunderstorms.  In the event, we got more of the usual, as the day brightened, it got progressively hotter and more humid.  As it got sunnier, our concentration was accompanied by the joyous sounds of splashing from the swimming pool.  We were spread out with such good social distancing that I didn't realise Avril was there until halfway through the morning.
This is an immensely imposing house, with magnificent timbers and ornate brickwork.  The garden spreads around the house, with winding paths to take you through glades and woodland.  I thought I would start this week with some photos to show those who didn't come what it is like.

Here is Harriet's sketch of the house, together with one she did earlier in the week of the horses next door to her home.

Jackie says, 'Abbey Farm offered us intriguing subjects to sketch and draw. A Tudor building with ancient doorways, weathered wooden timber frame, old brick walls, it wasn't long before our group settled with their pencils and paintbrushes.  The intense sun kept drying my paints so I resorted to producing this sketch in the end.'

Sally P. first looked up, rather daunted, at the main building and then turned and saw this door opening in an outbuilding, which I think has made a wonderful subject.

Diana also looked up at the building, and has taken a photo to show her sketch with its subject.
She also sent a painting from earlier in the week. 'Oil on top of old acrylic collagen thing .I think it’s too big. I might have another go on a smaller canvas.'
By the way, Diana asked me to ask all of you for guidance as to where there are places to visit locally where the public loos are open.  Very important, this, as earlier on, when they said we could now travel further afield, none of them were.

Avril (as she often is) was very busy this morning, and she has added an explanatory pair of photos.

Lesley spent some time in Devon last week and sent some photos to remind us that not everyone has had endless summer, together with a sketch of the River Dart. She painted the house in watercolour this morning, but felt she had not got the mullioned windows right, but I think it has a great graphic quality to it.

John Walters first sent me the painting on the left, and then came and sketched this morning, two drawings of the front of the house, lots of intricate timbers!

Finally in this section, my rather unsuccessful drawing of the garden.  I should not have started to add colour, that's where it went wrong. 

So now a big thank you to those who were not able to come this morning, but nonetheless sent me work to show you.  First Carolyn's lovely painting full of cool shadows.

Next Frances, who doesn't fail to remember, from Brittany, to send something each week.
'Thursday again! Or rather Jeudi ici en Bretagne...
In the middle of painting some of the insect life I have seen in the garden here and a sketch of Nick’s feet while he was asleep  in the shade. I learnt a great deal about his sandals!!!'

And finally, Jane has sent a lovely bunch of flowers. in a jam jar, and Les Bragg (via Sally P , who said, 'You want to go through to find out what's on the other side'), a vibrant doorway at Walsingham Gardens.

Please keep on sending me examples of what you are doing, and anything interesting you might want to pass on to the group.  Photos are welcome too.