South Devon Love
Hello, lovely readers! 🌟
I recently returned from an incredible trip to Devon, and I’m buzzing with inspiration and new ideas for my art. Travelling has always been a significant source of creativity for me, and this holiday was no exception. I can’t wait to share my experiences and the artistic inspiration I gathered along the way.
Kingsbridge Estuary from East Portlemouth
Located on the south west coast of England, Devon is a paradise of tree tunnels, rolling hills filled with farm life, stunning beaches and the most gorgeous coastal views. The moment I arrived, I loved how the dark blue ocean met the rugged coastline with deep turquoise-lined beaches.
The view of Gara Rock Beach from the coastal path.
One of the highlights was visiting Salcombe via one of the many ferries. The ferry we took to cross the estuary was a small open-top wooden motorboat, accommodating up to 8 people. The friendly boatman helped us on and off, collecting a contactless fee of £2.50 each way. The ride usually lasted under two minutes, though it took longer on rough or rainy days for safety. It gave me the joy of being on a boat during our holiday, an experience I always seek out.
We wandered around the nice streets in Salcombe, went into art galleries and pubs, then went to the Crab Shed, a cozy eatery at the end of the parking lot with a view of Batson Creek and Salcombe Distillery. I had a tasty French Rosé with my crab linguine and it was delicious. We relaxed by watching fish in the water, feeling content just being there.
Another unforgettable moment was walking to the picturesque South Sands, which filled me with awe and inspiration. Along the way, we encountered steep hills, historical architecture, and breathtaking views. I hoped to swim once we arrived, but the weather turned cold and windy. However, I did capture some photos of the beach, including a timelapse of another ferry coming into the bay.
Our days were filled with adventures visiting charming little towns, exploring various farm shops, and savoring delicious local food. In the evenings, I decided to spend some quality time with my sketchbook. As the sun dipped below the horizon on our first evening, we simply unwound. On the second night, I sat out and painted the picturesque view from our cozy Airbnb. The third evening inspired me to paint delicate dried flowers nestled in a glass vase, which was the centerpiece of a quaint cafe called Village Farm in East Portlemouth. After seeing so many white daisies in hedgerows and by the beachfront, I knew I wanted to paint them on the fourth night.
The following evening, I sketched a large picture of a tranquil fish pond teeming with lily pads, a fond memory from Stokeley Farm Shop. This small area, with its bustling creative community in quaint sheds laden with homewares and gifts, left a lasting impression. Our memorable brunch there comes highly recommended for those in the vicinity. On our second to last night, I attempted to capture the scenic beauty of Mill Bay beach from Salcombe.
On our last evening, I didnt paint, though I did manage to enjoy my third and last serving of fish and chips from an awesome little pub in East Prawle. This trip was a blend of creative inspiration and delightful coastal experiences, leaving me with wonderful memories and a sketchbook full of new ideas.
Back in my studio, I began reviewing my photos for inspiration. I could explore botanical themes with cyanotype prints of pressed flowers or watercolour floral studies. Seascapes are also an option, using watercolours and oil pastels for creamy textures. My challenge will be indecisiveness, but I plan to overcome it by setting a time limit and allowing myself to simply play and experiment.
My trip to South Devon was truly refreshing and nourishing. It rejuvenated my spirit and enriched my artistic vision. I can't wait to share my upcoming works with you all, and I hope they convey the beauty and inspiration I found on this journey. 🌿🎨
Thank you for reading! 🌟
Have you ever had a travel experience that inspired your creativity? Share your stories in the comments below! And stay tuned for more updates on my latest projects inspired by this beautiful trip.