I belong to two art societies where I am constantly picking up hints and tips from professional demonstrators. I love to paint plein air, and regularly go out with friends to paint, chat about all things arty, as well as taking refreshments in a local hostelry, so there’s a social element involved. My challenge then is to select a view to paint from the enormous vista in front of me. My second challenge is to ‘loosen up’ instead of trying to include every little detail. I will be painting in my lovely studio situated in our garden, and look forward to meeting people and chatting about my work as well as hearing their interests.