Just a brief one today; a picture of a mixed media work that I had under wraps as it was commissioned by a friend (Dave Id) for his partner's 50th birthday.

I started with a photographic image of a rockpool that I took in Trebarwith Strand in Cornwall. I printed the image onto canvas (approx. 50cm wide) and then laid on gold leaf to highlight the central water reflections. I then worked on the edges, laying down silk strands and plant dyed tissue paper. Finally, I worked over that with acrylic paint and oil sticks.

Dave came to my studio a few times to talk about the work and about what Alison likes. Then when it was finished, I went with him to the framers to help with the choice of frame.

Alison's birthday isn't until February, but they are off with a party of nearest and dearest to India to celebrate, so Dave arranged an 'unveiling' last weekend. It was a lovely evening, and I got to see a few old friends, though I was a bit nervous as I've never been to an unveiling of my own work and didn't want to steal Alison's thunder. Anyway, how wonderful to have a birthday celebration on another continent too!