Whilst walking around Croyde and Saunton searching for a little artistic inspiration I noticed fire tenders from RAF Chivenor on Saunton Beach. On enquiry I discovered that a Hercules C130J was going to practise take off and landings. After a few cups of tea and then venturing down the beach I witnessed the wonderful spectacle of a Hercules undergoing Tactical Operations. From my photographs taken that evening I’ve painted this acrylic on canvas impression. Canvas size 36 x 36″. Al
Below are a few paint palette abstracts used during the painting of this image.
A large acrylic composition 600 x 1100mm on gesso panel. A view out over Saunton Sands after lunch at the Thatch in Croyde, North Devon. Below are a few abstracts I’ve made of the card palettes used in the making of this painting. Quite a relaxing way to wind down from the main event. Al


An experiment in acrylic painting techniques that I’ve discovered on Youtube. The use of paper dabbing, ragging, sgraffito and sandpaper, I’ve even used a surgical scalpel. The aim is to created many transparent layers to great depth and texture. This image is a view from the top of Saunton Hill looking out over Saunton Sands and on to the distant Westward Ho. You get that wonderful glow of cadmium yellow Gorse flowers during the year which is always a striking scene. This painting is a mixed media using acrylic, wax and watercolour pencils. The surface is an MDF panel measuring 400 x 400mm covered in a coarse gesso brushwork. It’s been a fun day. Al
Another beach painting in view of the forthcoming Autumn weather. Oil on canvas 36 x 36″ Saunton After The Storm. North Devon, England.