Today at my desk...

I'm busy working like a little bee trying to finish some paintings/illustrations so that I can open the French shop on Monday, so I only have time for a quick blog today. I have managed to set up a small work desk here in the apartment, and it's perfect for me!

I bought a set of gouache paints (similar to watercolours but more opaque) and some new ink pens at the huge department store BHV the other day, so I've been experimenting with them. I'm working on a new bird series combining gorgeous colours with some of my usual detailed black and white ink illustration. After several test-pieces to refine my technique, I'm now working on the actual pieces that will be available in the shop next week.

While on a mission to find a lamp yesterday for the Norwegian Composers Society for their Parisian apartment (Leon manages the apartment for them), we also found this great adjustable metal desk lamp, which is just the thing I needed for my work desk. We put a daylight bulb in it so I can now work happily - and accurately! - on my paintings whatever the weather (Paris is very dark in November).

I hope you all have a lovely weekend and I'll be back at the beginning of next week to show you the new pieces! x

* Oh yes, I also decided to reopen The Blackbird Sings shop the other day, on a limited basis. I dislike leaving it closed for long periods while I'm here in Paris, so you're now able to order customised original bird illustrations - perfect as special Christmas gifts, or as a present to yourself. After all, it's always good to treat yourself after spending lots of money on others at this time of year! ;)

Comments

[Rodi]

Your work table looks really cozy and nice!
I was thinking about going to the BHV store's art supply department soon. Is it huge? I've been looking for some art supply stores in Paris, but I haven't been to any yet.

[Bella Casa]

Hello there. I can only imagine how excited you are to have a desk {and especially a good light source} with which to do your artwork. I'm currently on a hunt for the same. I want to start my calligraphy artwork business up again and right now I don't have adequate workspace. Look forward to seeing your new artwork. Glad you are having a good time in Paris.

[evan]

I have workspace...& it seems the larger the space, the greater the mess. Funny how sometimes an artist's space seems to mirror the work that comes out of it (like Francis Bacon, whose studio looked like a little corner of hell where demons hurled paint). You have a pristine little space, & your work also is beautiful, organised- meant as compliments. Thank you for the pics- always kind of cool to see where the work is coming from.

[cathie Joy]

oooooo-I am really looking forward to seeing the beautiful colored bird finished Natty!

Yes - you space looks organized and sweet.
Mine probably resembles the one mentioned above by evan ~ ;)

[Laura]

Your space looks so cozy and perfect! Can't wait to see your new birds!

[Artist Boyd Greene]

Very neat space to work in, much neater than mine! I'm working on decluttering at a slow pace. I love your blog design and your art!!!

[Natasha Newton]

@Rodi Thank you! And yes, BHV's art department is definitely worth a visit. I bought a few things while I was there. Apparently there's another great art shop that I should visit - I forget the name of it right now but I'll definitely blog about it when I go!

@Bella Casa yes, the right space in which to work is so important - even if it's not very large! :) Good luck with your calligraphy business.

@evan and @Cathie Joy Ha ha - thanks! It didn't look so organised by the end of yesterday though... ;)

@Laura and @Artist Boyd Greene Thank you very much - it's appreciated. :)