The Hopton Hall Month of Art Part 2
Well, that was a brilliant month. No, I didn’t win any prizes, and I didn’t make loads of money… it’s been so much more precious than that. It got me back out there, after a long period of hiding in my studio, being extremely unproductive and not at all engaged with my creativity. This July I rediscovered my love of painting outside, the joy of meeting new artists and having those conversations with people who just ‘know’. I rediscovered how rewarding it is to connect with the people who love art, who want to engage with me and find out more. Talking to the visitors throughout the month helped me connect with my own art, in a way that I've not done for a long time.
The generosity of Chris and Andi, the owners of Hopton Hall, and all the staff there, provided me (and indeed all the artists who took part) not only the beautiful gardens in which to paint, but also the valuable opportunity to do what I needed to do. To hide away unnoticed in the quieter corners of the gardens to help me re-gain my confidence in painting in public, as well as the challenge of painting right in the middle and talking to dozens of visitors. Having the lovely artists huts (see previous post) gave me a base to shelter from the intense heat and the occasional strong breezes, to sit and recharge my batteries for a bit, without having to go home. Having all my painting stuff there in my hut allowed me to experiment with what I needed to paint outdoors. If I forgot something vital I only had to walk 5 minutes to get it. Having the opportunity to spend 60 hours (12 days) with nothing else to do but paint, sit and do nothing, and meet artists / visitors (and the freedom to do as much of either as wished) was a blessing I didn’t know I needed. A huge bonus was the amazing weather we were lucky to have.
I was sad when it ended, but I've been left with the confidence to paint outside again, with new artist friends, some new ideas, opportunities, and knowledge, and lots of new connections with local art lovers and collectors. I’m so glad I said ‘yes’ to this event. The positive benefits are immeasurable, and i’m already looking forward for next year!
Hopton Hall moments 2026
