New work for my Etsy shop

Great Barrier Reef

Have just returned from a short break to Far North Queensland to see my son James. We had a great time cramming so much in, during four short days. The highlight of the trip was snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef, which has been on my wish list most of my life! Here are some photos of the coral and fish. The colours of the different fish were amazing. Going to the reef has really made me feel that we must protect our environment as this wonderful area is so fragile! The coral may not be saved for our children if we don't take climate change seriously.

IF: Duet

I've always admired the resilience of sparrows, often watching them working as pairs searching in the city food halls for crumbs. They seem to be tough intelligent little birds. I don't often see them where I live in my semi rural home, until the bird seed is on the table. They turn up out of thin air with all their mates to take advantage. These two little birds are singing a duet!

Fossicking

Something I love to do when I'm out walking. The term (fossicking) is still common  in Cornwall and Australia and was most likely originally a word used when searching for gold and minerals in the early days. Anyway, I love to find different treasures whether they are old bones, shells , feathers or seedpods, keeping them in my studio to sketch when I need inspiration.

IF: toy

Will somebody play with me?

Sunset and Snake

Two great photos taken by my son James, who works in northern Queensland. The photo of the sunset was taken on Groote Eylandt which is a large island in the Gulf of carpentaria owned by the Anindilyakwa people. Not sure what type of snake was in the second photo, but he has a great eye!

IF: Cultivate

We love to cultivate our own vegs but sometimes those pests are a nuisance. This was a quick watercolor sketch  finished in photoshop.

Illustration Friday "Warning"

Warning! Don't tease the Magpies.

Our friends have returned!

Each summer the Eastern and Crimson Rosellas spend much of their time checking out the Crab Apples on our tree to see if they are ready to eat. Today I think the apples are ready, even though they look very green! I really enjoy watching the birds using their claws to hold the fruit.

Grey Owl