I’m working on a piece at the moment inspired by Calgary Bay, a beautiful bay on the west of the Isle of Mull. Looking out across the sea, another island in the distance, then empty space as far as I can see. There is something special about sitting for a while by the sea. For me the sea can be a space of possibility, fear, uncertainty, ever changing, often a reminder of the power of nature.
One of my most special memories was taking part in the Tall Ships Race when I was 18, on Excelsior (a traditional Lowestoft fishing smack), from Antwerp in Belgium to Ålesund on the west coast of Norway. Days of not seeing land, or really any sign of human activity apart from a few oil rigs and container ships. Plotting positions and then following compass directions to take us towards our destination. It was a real change from the noise of everyday life where there are so many things competing for our time and attention.
PS: If you are visiting Calgary Bay, Calgary Gallery and the Calgary Art in Nature sculpture trail nearby are worth a visit.
