A ‘phone call first thing this morning to one of the art shops from which I get my materials confirmed the fact that It might well be Friday before the mail order arrives. In any case, I had pretty well decided how I was to pass the day. The weather has been far too good to climb at an indoor wall, and for various reasons my usual circle of mates was not available today to go outside. For some time I have been missing the experience of a really good hill walk, so I set off into the Yorkshire Dales.
I left the car in the village of Grassington, and as usual was amused by the fact that although the High Street was absolutely heaving with tourists, a walk of 200 metres away from that gave me the countryside almost to myself. A consequence of my lack of condition was the fact that by the time I ended the 12-13 km. walk I was at the staggering stage. Nevertheless, it has been a wonderful day. I was delighted to see so much bird life, and in addition to the usual inhabitants of Yorkshire moorlands, such as curlews or skylarks, I was pleased to encounter for the first time a flock of waxwings. The number an variety of butterflies was also a pleasant surprise.
Only as I drove back to Bradford did I realise that I had had no desire whatsoever to sit and draw, although I did take art materials with me. This is actually normal for me, and it holds for climbing as well as walking. If I am intent upon just enjoying the countryside then I don’t usually see it as raw material for art. Looking with the artistic interest of a location in mind is a distinct and separate activity, as far as I am concerned. I can see myself going back again with art in mind. Conistone Dib (a narrow, steep and winding defile cut through the limestone by flowing water) might make a great subject in the context of my “beyond” series, but I was content today just to file it for future reference.
*No: this has nothing whatsoever to do with the football, which I gather is occupying a great deal of attention these days. I’m aware of this because my wife has the daunting task of administering the entire competition. At least, I get the impression that this is what is happening.