An Interview with Pat Porter

Today is a nice day to be sitting outside. This bench is positioned fantastically, it's nice and secluded but yet I can see everything. Those Nemesia smell so delightful delicate next to the bench what a great little area. Coffee and biscuits is just the ticket this morning, although I may be pinching all the Jammy dodgers! Do you paint everyday Pat? I think I paint best in the afternoon and just paint when the mood strikes me. Always indoors for me every time, although I sometimes sketch outside when on holiday. I love the Greek islands and have several paintings/sketches that I have done there.

Do you paint on the kitchen table or have your own designated area?
I have a small studio which is really a glorified, converted summer house. Mostly, I paint from a photo but when I do one of my surreal paintings it all comes from my head.  I occasionally go straight in with the paint without a preliminary drawing and I find those are usually quite successful, but more often I draw it first. One of my cats sometimes sits in with me.  Our old cat who died used to love my studio and considered it hers! My husband does bring me out a cup of coffee. 

Who or what inspires you?
I've no idea what inspires me. Different things at different times I suppose.  Also it depends on what medium I am using. Although watercolour is perhaps my preferred medium, I also dabble with pastels, coloured pencils, oils, inks and acrylics. The love of drawing and painting has been with me since a child but I've certainly achieved more since I retired.

How long on average does it take to complete a painting?
That's like asking how long is a piece of string!  I would say at least several hours, although sometimes I put a painting to one side and come back to it months later. I'm definitely not always satisfied with the end results! Does this mean you've painted over one of your paintings you didn't think 'cut the mustard'? - No, because most of my paintings are in watercolour so you can't really paint over those.  I sometimes use the paper for scrap.

Where would you suggest anyone coming to Cumbria to paint or to visit go?
I think I would recommend either the Eden Valley or the Lake District.  A spot of lunch would be in the cathedral café (Carlisle) and an evening meal at the Greek restaurant, Alexandros.

Where are we off too today for a spot of outside painting, I have a big flask of coffee to share and sandwiches oh and a blanket in-case it gets a little breezy. We are off down into Rickerby Park and a couple of places around there spending a small amount of time at each location. That sounds wonderful!

And finally do you have any tips for new artists young or old?
My tips would be to keep at it.  Practice may not make perfect but it will surely help to make improvements.  Find a style you feel really suits you - perhaps pen and wash - and take a look at all the free tutorials on YouTube.  Also, buy the best paper you can afford.  Rubbish paper usually means rubbish results.

Pat is one of our showcase artist, to view her page please click here
Pat can also be found in these places Facebook and Pat's website