New exhibition and spring is in the air

​​I hope this finds you well and enjoying some more spring-like weather. It was warm here for a while and all the leaves started appearing on the trees, at last. That lovely fresh, light green that only lasts a short while. It has turned chilly again, so work in the garden is on hold.

Poetry

I signed up to NaPoWriMo (National Poetry Writing Month) this year – actually to something called Escapril, organised by a lovely poet in Aberdeen. The aim was to write a poem, based on a provided prompt, every day all through April. Only two days to go and I’m happy to say I’ve produced something every day so far!  I’m one of those people who works better when given ‘homework’, so I’ve enjoyed the challenge. It also reminds me just how much I Iove playing with words. Here’s my effort from Day 4. The prompt was ‘attention’.
 
PAYING ATTENTION
there are days
when every blade of grass
every stalk and stem
every lichen smothered rock
demands, commands
your attention
when every raindrop
that hasn’t reached the ground
is found in the leafy crevice
of a lupin
there are days
when from nowhere
sudden primroses appear
daffodils dance in drifts
of yellowness
when buds burst into leaf
a sheaf of green
where all was grey
when you step aside,
avoid the furry caterpillar
on the path

Local markets

​The local markets are now in full swing and I’m enjoying being back at them. It’s good to see familiar faces and to catch up. And having conversations about creativity is always a joy!  I’m now stocking some larger sizes of sketchbooks (I’ve got my eye on them for my upcoming holiday on Lewis and Harris) and I enjoy hearing what people plan to do with them.  A couple of new linoprint designs have appeared recently – a small puffin and a larger heron. 

Exhibitions

​I’m happy to have a couple of small pieces of work in the newly opened spring exhibition at Loch Torridon Community Centre gallery.  ‘Seaweed 1’ and ‘Seaweed 2’ are gelli prints. It’s a medium I’ve not used very much, but which is great fun!  A recent conversation with someone at Poolewe market reminded me of it. That’s how it goes.
 
The Carron Pottery gallery now has a few of my artworks on display. They’re also now fully restocked with my linoprinted sketchbooks and a selection of my small originals. 
 
Later in the year, on Saturday 1st July, I’ll be at the Gairloch Gathering, in the field beside Sands campsite. Fingers crossed for a fine day!  It was a grand day out last year. 

New stockist

​Thanks to a chance conversation at Gairloch Thursday market, a selection of my products is now available to purchase from a new stockist.  Gairloch Marine Wildlife Centre and Cruises, based on Pier Road at the harbour in Gairloch has my marine themed mugs, coasters, keyrings and cards.  

​As always, many thanks for your continued interest in my work - it is greatly appreciated.

all the best

Jennifer