Looking south from above the ancient dykes of Frendal Dale, Wolds near Huggate.

 

 28th September, 2020.

Parking on the grass verge near the start of the walk, another car pulled up and, at a safe distance I met an artist, who told me he was going to see the ancient earthworks. He also had a dog to exercise so I let him set off and then followed. It was amazing to see two red kite almost immediately flying ahead near the compound earthworks group, a sort of linear labyrinth. As I approached I looked south, a group of birds were circling on thermals rising from the valley below. They turned out to be more red kite. I counted twelve of them, before carrying on, along the top ridge above Frendal Dale. I could see, on the distant horizon, beyond the Vale of York, power stations, one in particular was very prominent with its tall chimney being much higher than the cooling towers. As I painted a farm vehicle pulled up behind me. The driver got out and we have a lovely conversation even mentioning a mutual acquaintance who lived in nearby Huggate. I moved my gear and he drove on past me disappearing near some trees. The land is being rapidly worked, prepared, tilled, sown and inspected. The farmers are working flat out especially when the weather allows. One of my fond memories whilst painting in the Wolds is the chance encounters with farmers, who are always interested in my work, and indeed, I like to hear of their farming experiences. Alongside me was a fence which proved reassuring as some beautiful cattle, young calves and their mothers became very interested in seeing us. At times, younger cattle would run over and I was glad not to be in the valley itself where, indeed, the footpath passes. It is quite normal, to avoid cattle at this time, in these remoter areas, as they are not used to seeing people so much, and are thus inquisitive and also protective. The cattle on my usual walk over the Westwood pasture in Beverley is so different. There, I can walk George off his lead through and past cattle who are familiar with people.

 Original plein air painting. Oil on canvas board, 12x10 inch, POA, email me for details.

Homemade pochade on tripod