I’ve been asked by the children of the local primary school what my favourite location on Skye is, for a project they’re working on. Needless to say, there’s an abundance of inspirational landscape on Skye, without even considering how different the same locations look as the seasons change (and the weather). But if I were to pick one, there’s a spot in the Uig woodland, next to a river through a wooden gate, where I love to sit. It might come as a surprise that my favourite location isn’t a sea view, but that’s my everyday joy; the river I have to go to specifically.
In mid-summer it’s a cool leafy respite from the sun. In mid-winter it’s frosty and bright as the low sun penetrates past the trees. In autumn there are yellows and browns; in spring fresh greens. The sounds: birds singing, leaves rustling, water gushing or trickling depending on how full the river is. Yes, there are days when it’s wet and less poetic, but I don’t go here on such days. And, yes, the main road is nearby but, for me, the traffic noise doesn’t penetrate. I find it an ever-enticing dance of colour and shadow that never fails to charge my creative batteries, even if I don’t stop for long. Park at the Uig community hall, stroll along the beach, through the gap in the stone wall, follow the path amongst the young tree trunks then past the oaks, around the corner and on a bit, and I’m there.
The reflected colours, light and shadows in the water are mesmerizing, constantly flickering as the water flows past.
This January light became a 100x100cm painting called “Summer Glow”. (I didn’t call it “Winter Glow” because the painting doesn’t feel wintry to me.)
One autumn, after strong wind, all leaves had blown off the taller trees, but the leaves on a short tree had been sheltered, creating a splash of bright colour.
The page from my sketcbook, with my colour and observation notes.
It became a 100x100cm painting with the official title “Flowing Past”, though I think of it as “The Little Tree That Could” painting.
This is what I generally have with me when I’m sketching on location (plus a sketchbook).
Sketching in October.
Lovely. I have fond memories of Uig woods too – we visited them in thick leafy green and it was incredibly cool and dark as we followed the stream up.
It’s a magical little woodland; to me it always feels bigger than it is once you’re under the trees.
Love what you wrote…..and painted.
Thanks Robb. Next time you’re on Skye, we’ll have to go there!
Beautiful. I know those woods well. Your finished painting is almost monetesque of you know what I mean. Wonderful light and colour.
I’m sure you’ve been in them often Morag! And thank you; Monet’s a great inspiration as you know, so that’s a serious compliment.