Turning problems into positives

Every painter knows that feeling of failure when a painting “dies” on you. If you work thickly in oils and the picture dries, there’s not much one can do. However, once one has accepted that the pictu

I just adore street scenes, I am fascinated with the colours the shapes and the atmosphere. Streets are different all over the world. I love the interaction with people and the energy. This project wi

Benedict Brain searches his archives for the inspiration to escape winter’s creative doldrum

I’ve finally finished decorating my spare room. Don’t worry, I haven’t confused this with a column for Good Homes magazine –we’ll get to the running in a bit, trust me. I moved into my house nearly fo

WHEN Kate had decided, at the age of fifty-five, to reduce her working hours and go part-time at her job, she had imagined filling her extra days off with all kinds of exciting adventures. Instead, sh

Years ago, my eyes were opened to the economy and power of watercolour when I saw ‘View from Monte Mario of the River Tiber’ by Claude Lorrain in the British Museum. You can still relive the energy an