Norway and the British Isles: A Painter’s Inspiration

An Unforgettable 3-Week Adventure

I just returned from an awe-inspiring three-week trip through Norway and the British Isles, and I'm still buzzing from all the amazing experiences. With over 1300 photos in my collection, I've managed to capture the essence of everything I saw, from majestic fjords to charming fishing villages, from standing stones to prehistoric settlements, and from old derelict huts to manors, castles and palaces.

Breathtaking Landscapes and Captivating History

The natural beauty of Norway’s fjords left me speechless. These tranquil yet dramatic waterways surrounded by towering cliffs are absolutely stunning. In the British Isles, I was fascinated by prehistoric sites and ancient standing stones that echoed with stories of the past as well as the variety of landscapes.

The Shetland and Orkney Isles were dotted with sheep and ponies, adding a picturesque quality to the rugged landscape. Scotland was majestic, rolling hills, hidden woods and an endless open view. England has towering hedgerows, narrow roads and old villages. All watched carefully by a large population of raptors. Exploring quaint fishing villages and old towns, I felt like I’d stepped into a bygone era. The historic churches, manors, castles, and palaces offered a peek into the regions’ rich heritages.

Artistic Treasures and New Inspirations

Among all the memories, my favorite places were definitely the galleries where I had the pleasure of seeing works by masters such as John Singer Sargent, Monet, Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Rubens. Each gallery was a paradise for a painter like me, offering a serene space to contemplate these masterpieces.

During this trip, I made an exciting new discovery: the works of William McTaggart, a Scottish impressionist. His expressive landscapes were a revelation, and I found myself deeply inspired by his brushwork and his light incorporation of people, like they were part of the landscape.

Back at My Easel with Fresh Eyes

With all these incredible impressions fresh in my mind, I can't wait to get back to my easel. This journey has filled me with new ideas and perspectives that I’m eager to translate onto canvas and paper. Stay tuned for my upcoming works— Norway and the British Isles definitely have influenced me!