Showcasing New Paintings of Northumberland
After a long winter, I’m looking forward to the warmer weather and longer days of spring and summer. Over the last few months, I’ve been busy working away from my Cullercoats studio on a few original paintings depicting my favourite locations across Northumberland.
I talk extensively on the blog about my Limited Edition Art Prints and even North East-inspired gift ideas. As a small business owner, I love writing these articles as it gives me a chance to promote my favourite places to visit across the region, including highlighting some fantastic local businesses.
But behind my business is my artistry. I feel so grateful to have made a living doing what I love – painting. So, I thought it would be a lovely idea to dedicate this month’s article to what got me here in the first place: art!
How I became a professional artist
I was born and raised in Berwick-upon-Tweed and later moved up north to Dundee to study Print Textile Design. You might be surprised to hear that, although I am now a passionate painter and mixed media artist, I actually started my career as a freelance designer before transitioning to my current medium in 2006, and opening my gallery with my husband, Ross, in 2019.
You can learn more about my journey on the About page. But enough about me, let’s get into the art.
Dunstanburgh Castle
Dunstanburgh Castle | Original Northumberland Painting
The first of my recent pieces I’d like to share with you is this painting depicting grazing sheep on a cloudy day overlooked by the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. The fortification is the perfect representation of the coastline’s deep history, with foundations dating back to the 14th century.
The composition of this painting is one of my favourites as the sheep symbolise new life and change of season, while the ruins act as a constant reminder of the region’s rich heritage.
Alnmouth Reflections
Alnmouth Reflections | Original Northumberland Painting
This painting shows the beautiful multi-coloured homes of Lovaine Terrace in Alnmouth, softly reflected by the river Aln. What’s really special about this piece is that the colours of the sunset sky match the colourful houses, creating a mix of beautiful blue, green and pink hues in the reflection of the gentle river.
Lindisfarne Boat Sheds
Lindisfarne Boat Sheds | Original Northumberland Painting
If colour is your thing, then this piece showing two charming fisherman’s sheds in front of the iconic Lindisfarne Castle might catch your eye. The sheds are constructed from upturned herring boats and are used by fishermen for storage. The wonderful thing about these coastal locations is that they aren’t just beauty spots but also working towns, home to a hive of hardworking locals that give each place such character.
Cottages in Craster
Cottages in Craster - Original Painting
This next piece would be the perfect addition to a coastal holiday home or as a souvenir for a trip up north. Three coble boats rest on the pebbles at Craster harbour, overlooked by a street of colourful terraced homes. I’m really proud of this piece as I have challenged myself this year to paint more buildings, and I really love how this one turned out.
Northumberland View
Northumberland View - Original Painting
Don’t worry, nature lovers. The great outdoors will always take centre stage in my paintings. This piece shows the rolling farmers' fields of Northumberland with swathes of bright pink heather growing along Simonside – a favourite family walk of ours and many others, I’m sure!
That’s just some of my recent original paintings. You can browse the full collection of available pieces on my website or visit me in the gallery on St George's Road, Cullercoats. We’re open 10 am - 5 pm, Wed to Sun.
