Sunday, 10 May 2015

STILL GOING IN CIRCLES

I'm still going around in circles. Having designed the workshop I thought it prudent to get other things in order before starting it. 

The garden (yard) needed sorting out, and then there was the matter of the four-poster bed that was almost finished (years ago). I've now completed it in American White Oak - which isn't the easiest of woods (tough) but is well worth the effort. Being a shipwright (boat-builder) influences everything I do, and so you can safely go to sea in this bed; it will withstand the Atlantic gales!!

Then there is Saint David's. St David's is the smallest city in the UK (population circa 2000). In the UK, to be classified as a city a town must satisfy a number of criteria including that it must have a cathedral.

 Saint David's is about 5 miles from my home - seems a lot further when driving the narrow twisty country-lanes. 



The Cathedral began as a monastery, founded by Saint David (who is buried there) in the year 589. It was attacked over the years by Vikings and  other marauding bands. Work on the Cathedral began in 1123. 



 I have to tell you that it is the most remarkable building and I have no choice other than to lay down my brush and paint and revert to pen & ink to draw this scene:

For those interested, here is the four poster awaiting the drapes and pelmets.

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19 comments:

  1. juliefordoliver.blogspot.com10 May 2015 at 09:09

    First of all - I LOVE the BED! Wow - you are a genuine artist with the lathe as well as pen and brush.
    Building a workshop is a huge job, but one obviously important. Your plans looked very professional.
    I have visited St David's when I stayed with a friend in Caerphilly, back in the early 60's. They had a castle and I think there were fabulous ruins in St David's nearby, but this cathedral is pretty pristine. I do remember wonderful tile flooring and amazing ceilings. Thanks for the trip down memory lane.

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  2. Gatepost productions10 May 2015 at 12:05

    Thank you, Julie. Gosh, you must have been a toddler when you went to St David's! You're right, the floors and ceilings are marvellous

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  3. Linda Roth10 May 2015 at 12:07

    You can paint all you like, but you'll never surpass your eloquence with the subjects of the draughtsman that is you. Marvelous structure. both the monastery and the four post.

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  4. hmuxo10 May 2015 at 18:28

    Talk about talent!! This bed is amazing! and yes, this Cathedral is just waiting patiently for you to paint it. I can't wait to see the pen and ink of this building.

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  5. Sandra Busby11 May 2015 at 05:16

    Is there nothing you can not do John? I am very glad that the bed will withstand the Atlantic Ocean... I'm sure that will come in very, um... handy? Lol! ;0)

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    1. Gatepost productions14 May 2015 at 11:09

      Jack of all trades and master of none, some may say.

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  6. Sandra Busby11 May 2015 at 05:18

    Is there nothing you can not do John? I am very glad that the bed will withstand the Atlantic Ocean... I'm sure that will come in very, um... handy? Lol! ;0)

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  7. Studio at the Farm11 May 2015 at 06:12

    The cathedral of St. David's is exquisite - I can see why you are so keen to draw it. Have you seen the watercolors of Paul Dmoch? - a Belgian artist who does a lot of sumptuous works of cathedrals.
    And your four poster is a superb!!! I am sure it is able to withstand Atlantic gales - beauty and strength. Marvelous work, John!!!
    When you have stopped going in circles, I look forward to seeing your cathedral work :)
    Kathryn

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    1. Gatepost productions14 May 2015 at 11:15

      Well I have seen Paul Dmochi's work now and find it awe inspiring, thank you.

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  8. jsicignano2.blogspot.com11 May 2015 at 07:57

    John, all I can say is what I have always said about you, your talent know no bounds. The St. David's is wonderful and perfect for you next pen and ink. Well done and best of luck with all that you do.

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  9. Judy12 May 2015 at 03:07

    Such a beautiful cathedral, John, I can see your pen and ink drawing already! A wonderful four poster bed!

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  10. PaintingWrite12 May 2015 at 23:30

    What a fabulous bed John. It seems you are a man if many talents! Looks lovely where you are.

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    1. Gatepost productions14 May 2015 at 11:17

      Good you liked it, Nic.... looks lovely up there in northern Scotland too.

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  11. Susan13 May 2015 at 16:38

    St. Davids Cathedral is just begging you to render it in pen and ink! It will be glorious! And what an interesting concept - a bed that can sail on the sea. I love that utility as I never know when I might need a sea worthy bed!

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  12. Gatepost productions14 May 2015 at 11:18

    Hi Susan - I had a quick look and can see you are really doing well - Congratulations

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