Join me as I share the progression of a pastel nocturne — from thumbnail and charcoal block-in to layered colour and deepening night with glowing light — along with the thinking behind each stage.
Ever told yourself there’s just no time to paint? It’s easy to think that but a few snatched sessions in a tiny Greek village reminded me of what’s possible. In this post, I share three quick plein air paintings each created in well under an hour, how thumbnails made it happen, and why even short bursts at the easel can bring so much joy.
Plein air painting with my Mum led to two paintings of one scene — and one powerful lesson about how thumbnails bring freedom to your art.
A light plein air painting trip with no easel and no grand plans—just five scenes, painted in the moment, with whatever was at hand.
Using charcoal in a pastel painting? It might be just what you need. See how I rescued a piece with this soft and surprising solution.
15 minutes to paint? Yes, it’s possible! See how I skipped my usual thumbnail sketch (!), grabbed my pastels, and made the most of a fleeting plein air moment.
Discover how a simple snapshot, even from a moving vehicle, can spark an inspiring painting, as I show you how to ‘see’ the potential hidden in those quick photos!
See how Gail simplifies a street view in Trequanda, Tuscany by focusing on what matters most…to her!
The best way to jumpstart your art practice is to create momentum. Gail shares how she learnt this lesson on a trip to La Manzanilla, Mexico
A painting of mother and son in front of a Miró painting from Gail’s gallery goer series. Gail takes you through its creation step by step.
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