The similarities between Dublin and Newcastle are not striking, indeed they may have escaped the attention of most people; Dublin lacks the beautiful mountain backdrop, beach and the sweeping views across Dundrum bay but then Newcastle lacked a sculpture on a power with the O'Connell street spire or The Spike as it known in Dublin. This situation has now been put to right with the installation of the stainless steel spire that graces the new promenade. Dublin like the Mournes also has its fair share of beautiful bridges and having spent the last week working in Dublin I used the opportunity to sketch the Halfpenny Bridge that spans the river Liffey. Like many cities setting up an easel in Dublin is a sure way to attract unwanted attention so it's best to work discreetly. A sketchbook resting on a newspaper and a water-soluble pencil is all that's required when sketching away from home, back in my hotel room I used a brush to activate the pigment and liven up the sketch before strengthening the image with a pen and some additional pencil work. Having spent the winter months attending classes and improving painting skills, travellers on holidays often find themselves with a choice of wonderful subjects and ample time to paint; choosing suitable equipment and building up a bit of confidence working outdoors should be sorted out before the holiday. Passports and tickets can be left to the last minute but its best to try out your painting kit closer to home especially if you are unused to working directly outside. The Dubliners are already complaining that their three year old spike is rusting having failed to live up to its billing as a self cleaning monument; certainly it is starting to look grubby but rising to 120 meters it is none the less impressive; the Newcastle spire may be diminutive by comparison but at least it wont be hard to keep clean.
If you are interested a painting you can contact Eamonn by ringing 07962 189132