An Interview with Caroline Davis

Thanks for coming to mine for the interview, I thought perhaps we could sit at the picnic table and sketch through the interview, I'll keep the milky coffee and the buttery shortbread coming. I only have good old fashioned mugs in-case I drop them!

I usually spend an hour setting up my artwork after I've been to work or I've spent most of the day doing chores or playing in the garden. By the time I've set up I've lost my flow or gotten side tracked. How does your arty day go?
As a retired doctor the day starts with a leisurely tea and listening to the iplayer, such a treat after an NHS working life. I like to get the chores done so that I can start painting with a clear head. My most productive period through the day is morning and early afternoon.

Caroline in her usual pose by Milan Ivanic taken from davidmillerkeswick.com

Do you paint every day or when the mood strikes you?
I paint most days, and do studies, and read about art every day. For nearly 20 years I have been keeping a visual diary, a drawing everyday. This activity I am sure has taught me to paint loosely and to aid creative thoughts. I enjoy both studio and outdoor painting. I have an electric bike bought because of the hills but also to be able to stop easily to do a sketch.

How do you start a painting, what is the inspiration behind them?
My paintings are sparked by a study done on a cycle ride. First scribbling with hard charcoal which is washed off then more scribbles with oil pastels. Then I go in with oil paint trying to respond to what is on the painting. There is no plan or preconceived  idea as to the outcome. I noticed regular life sessions improved my life painting so about 2 years ago I decided do “landscape” painting every week. Paintings are on the go for about a week, sometimes longer. Say what you have to say then get out!

My paintings start off as a pencil drawing and I 'colour' between the lines. Once I start to add paint I will be satisfied with the picture I envision. Are you always satisfied with your end results as you paint very different to me?
No, I am rarely satisfied.. but photographing of all my paintings I have an idea of progress. I use Arches oil paper so can paint on the both sides. I collage painting, cut them up to make cards.. and take them to recycling. 
Have you ever tried another medium other than oil for your paintings?
I have tried acrylics and use them, dry media in studies and in having fun.

I'm hoping to get a space permanently in the house so I don't have to keep setting up and my mess is 'contained', do you have your own room?
Oh! I am so lucky a couple years ago we had a garden room built so that I have now a studio for the purpose. There is a feeder placed close to the studio, I do get distracted by the visiting birds often. I tend to work in spurts of about 1-2h then need reviving with tea or a wander around the garden.

If you were to take a friend out for a days painting, where would you go?
I'm happy to paint anywhere outside, all of Cumbria is fabulous and inspiring. I know the Eden Valley the best. It would depend on their particular interest as to where we would venture too. I believe in trying to make a drawing/painting of whatever place and what is in front of me. As I live so far inland I would like to go to the coast, turquoise seas, West and north coast of Scotland. Hot coffee is an absolute necessity. It is easy to get cold painting outside. Generally I only take a snack, followed by tea and a cake at home or any of the fab tea shops all over the county.

Lastly do you have any tips for new artists young or old?
Two quotes for every artists that say it all..
“Be bold, make a mess, don’t worry about being good”
“If you are not in over your head how do you know how tall you are”

If you would like to see more of Caroline, here is her showcase page