10th February Sunrise, Saharan Dust, from Swinyard Hill

Gesso and oil paint on birch panel, unframed. 60cm x 84cm.

During Covid lockdowns I had a project of watching sunrises from locations close to home. Getting up extra early is easier when one doesn’t have anything in the diary.

Saharan dust was in the weather forecast so I knew the sunrise would be spectacular. I went to Swinyard Hill, The Malvern Hills.  It was a frosty morning with flood water along the River Severn which added an extra dimension to the foreground.

I watch the sunrise with my full attention.  I take some photos with my phone. Once the sun is well above the horizon, I sketch using coloured pencils and make notes in my sketch book.

I develop the painting in my studio, using my memory, sketch book, photos and small painting studies.

All my paintings are available as a limited edition Giclee print, LP Contact or at www.madeinross.co.uk