Lendal Bridge, York

On only my second visit to York, I set out early one morning to capture the breathtaking view of Lendal Bridge. The scene presented a fascinating challenge with its varied scales, but using the sight-size method—my usual approach—makes even complex compositions more manageable. That said, mapping out an intricate vista like this takes time and care. The drawing, the framework upon which all the details rest, must be meticulously refined and questioned until the painting is complete.

That particular morning in York was nothing short of magical. A delicate mist hung in the air, gradually illuminated by the rising sun. By sheer coincidence, I had chosen a spot along a busy commuter route between York station and the business district. Starting around 8:00 am, a trickle of passersby soon became a steady stream of workers heading into the city.

The experience was both humbling and uplifting. I received many kind words from those who stopped to watch, and I’d like to think that seeing a slightly eccentric artist, hands already smudged with paint, added a spark of joy to their day. It felt like a win-win—a shared moment of appreciation for the beauty of the world around us.