Forest run on the contour path with an extra loop thrown in along a piece of single track marked with green spots on trees. Fortunately it was dry underfoot so the exposed roots and pine needles weren’t a skating rink. Still tricky.

A painting of power and menace. Danger, in those life, and death moments that are Africa. I searched for the sinews, stretched across muscles, coiled with explosive energy. I adjusted the composition to increase the triangular placement of the Zebra’s. Simplified the skyline which was distracting.

Increasing the tonal aspect of the painting made it a tad heavy feeling, which I adjusted by taking out some of the harder edges. Burnt sienna added into the muscle areas of the lioness to increase her dominance.

I did need to ensure that the painting included the key characteristics of the Cape Mountain Zebra. Narrow black stripes on the neck and torso. Wide stripes on the rump. White belly, and dewlap. Striped socks down the legs and rump stripes.

A hint of the wild irises that were flowering.

A fair amount of mud walking along the hide-tide mark of the salt marsh collecting garbage. Part of the ongoing drive for awareness about the dangers litter has on the fragile Eco-system. The normal plastic, bottles, crisp and sweet wrappers, with clumps of fishing line thrown in. The box, with an engraved brass plaque that once held the ashes of a departed soul, a bit more of a surprise.

Cold paints. My fingers frozen! The studio cooler with the sun hidden behind clouds. Even long trousers with shoes and socks are required!

Admin chores consuming my days. Long neglected I know, and important. Still, not my best. Inventory of paintings completed and the website updated. Memories, and stories behind rediscovered favourites.

Morning mist lifting as the sun turned he lagoon into a reflecting pool for the vaults of heaven. The path of our running route, paved with gold as light filtered through autumn leaves. This, another day in paradise.