Springwood Primary School Commission

 

I was recently commissioned by staff at Springwood Primary School in Liverpool to paint a watercolour of the old school building for the retiring head teacher.

When I was initially contacted and shown the photographs that I was to work from, I asked if any more could be taken from a slightly different angle and if possible, on a sunny day. I was informed that this was not possible as the building no longer existed and had since made way for a new building!

Fortunately, I was able to use a little ‘artistic license’ and work with what I had to produce a painting from the desired angle in the right light conditions. 

This was the viewpoint that I wanted to use as a basis for the painting (below). I broke up the overcast sky with some blue sky breaking through the clouds. I felt that the railings in the foreground didn’t necessarily need to be there, so removed them. I decided to include the yellow road markings as these are a feature of many schools. The only other adjustment was to add the cherry blossom to the tree to bring in a dash of colour.

This was the only photograph I could find of the old school entrance. I could just make out enough detail to use it as a reference for extending the main image to the left.

This is a close up of the date stone which was positioned over the window on the far right. Quite a significant feature which was to be included in the panting.

Here is the finished watercolour. I was very happy with how it worked out and hopefully will be a lovely memento of the school for the retiring Head Teacher.

Are you looking for a gift to mark a special occasion? I'd love to hear from you - get in touch to find out more about the process of commissioning a piece of original artwork...  

Call me on 07792 553 273 or send an e mail to peter_chapple@hotmail.com