Coming to the end of my Lighthouse Arts residency in Newcastle. There’s something about this space – the constant sound of the sea, white walls, absence of domestic belongings, quiet, steepish trek up the hill to get there – that makes it a remarkable place to create work.

Being on top of a headland, overlooking ocean or harbour on all sides, has re-ignited my passion for the sea. In a previous life, I was a sailing journalist, and I’ve always loved boats and being near the water. I’ve spent a lot of time during this residency just watching the way the wind hits the water, and how sea and sky change colour during the course of a day.

At times, wind hits the headland with such strength that it seems like a living creature. On the day I drew these tugs, the air was taut, muscular, heavy. Everything churned – the sea, sky, trees and grass, whipped around like glitter.

Enjoying the challenge of drawing and painting from life in these conditions! It forces certainty – quick decision making and fast lines – to capture the energy of the moment.

If you’d like to apply for a Lighthouse Arts residency, here’s the link: https://lighthousearts.org.au/residencies/