I retired from BMW in 2011, having worked in the design drawing office for many years but inexplicably ending up as a logistics manager. After retiring, I eventually decided that I wanted to become a bit more creative.
The first thing I painted was a London paint-by-numbers scene which, although the end result was satisfying, was a bit like making a cake from a mix, not creative but still time-consuming.
I then joined U3a at Watlington, purely so that I could have a go at painting, with the excellent Jane Pawlyn running the group. After a year I joined WADAC and went to the morning Claire Cross class, with a different skill and subject to attempt every week.
I am currently attending Grant Waters’ afternoon group at WADAC, trying to get used to acrylics which are so different from watercolour.
I would like to be able to move my art towards a more abstract, interpretive, looser style but find probably because of my technical background this is a challenge!
I also try to join Oxford Urban Sketchers on a Wednesday when I get time. It’s great fun and the venues are very varied around the City. So to anybody out there wanting to have a go, I’d say, don’t hesitate, jump in and you will enjoy it. I’ve only been painting for 2 years and it’s a great way to lose half a day, but, my wife has banned me from all art shops in Oxfordshire!
Finally, thanks to all of the committee & members of WADAC that I have been in contact with, for being so welcoming, helpful & instructive – it’s a great club.
Colin’s 1st ever painting, a painting-by-numbers kit – done in lockdown in 2020, which in his words was “incredibly time-consuming, fussy and not very creative!”.
