Wild Azaleas, Landscape Painting

Wild Azaleas, chalk pastel on board

The first signs of spring after a bitter Korean winter - pink azalea flower. No leaves, just the flowers.

Extinct, Korean Tiger

Extinct, Korean Tiger

I finished this painting a couple of years ago. It's been hanging in my hall, and I've never exhibited it; I thought it was too different from anything I've done before.

I used all sorts of inks, gold and copper acrylics, glazes and Korean handmade paper (fabulous stuff).
Oh, and the writing is Korean. A lot of the letters are also extinct, like their tigers, and my Korean friends couldn't read it for me. I thought it was fitting. He's on canvas board.

But a couple of weeks ago there was a call for entries to an exhibition for an animal charity. I thought my tiger was appropriate.

And he just sold. I'm delighted, and surprised because he is so unlike my other work.

I now have a gap in my hall that needs to be filled. Yay.

March 2015
Since writing this post, there have been some developments. Yes, this painting was sold, but the gallery never paid me. I have tried to take them to court, but they closed up shop, and then reopened in the same place under a different name. I haven't exhibited since.

Painting Outside in Korea

Sketching or painting outside can be a very relaxing experience, but it all depends on where you decide to plant yourself.

     Until recently, I lived in South Korea and I used to love painting in Gyeongju, Korea's ancient capital.  On this occasion spring was at it's height and I had completely misjudged the crowds after a harsh winter which were out walking or taking photographs (both national pastimes).  Even though it was early in the morning, the only westerner with an easel and chalk pastels was fair game.  I was jostled, photographed (as was my work - a big no-no without permission) and I have Korean fingerprints on my painting as pastels had not been seen before.  I have never been the centre of so much attention - it's rather difficult working with a camera lens resting on your shoulder.

     My advice?  Be careful where and when you choose to set up for en plein air painting, but be very grateful to the temple's monks who go out of their way to feed and befriend you with a life time's supply of coffee and boiled sweets.

Image: Temple Doors (www.tracybutler.co.uk)