I've had a very busy few months completing various commissions. Having packed off a large canvas to Canada and another to America I tackled the most complicated commission; it was for nine different paintings to be framed in one large frame!

All the paintings had a seaside theme and images of Jersey. I loved painting them all and waited with some anticipation to see how the framing would turn out. I needn't have worried - my framer did a fantastic job and it looks amazing. (Please excuse the plastic wrap on the frame.)

I've wanted to do an alphabet for ages but couldn't figure out how to frame it... but now I know how, as soon as I have time I am going to get cracking on it!

I had a lovely start to the month - a commission to paint a family. The father had asked for them to be paddling in the sea and for me to paint under as well as above the water. This took me right back to a series I did years ago showing under as well as above the water. I loved the idea of being able to see this secret world beneath the waves. The challenge was to make it really look like it was under the water - I did this by toning down the colours, this created a contrast between the bright above and the cooler, subdued below. It was fascinating to paint and made for a very interesting painting (I thought)!

I think I enjoy painting reflections for the same reason - I am creating an illusion but at the same time everything is still flat and simpified. Having completed the commission I have revisited the subject and painted a few for a show I am working on for a gallery in Dorset - I must say I loved doing them!!  I think it reminds me of when I was young. I spent most summers catching crabs and grubbing around in rockpools and the magic  of those times hasn't left me!