A year in Steckborn, Switzerland; Changing seasons
The D'Albret Residency
The D’Albret Collection has invited me to take part in a year-long artist-in-residence program.
I will be creating a series of oil paintings inspired by the City of Steckborn, Switzerland. As the seasons change, I hope to capture a sense of local culture, landscape, and history. In short, the essence of Steckborn. The residency will culminate in a public exhibition showcasing the completed series and will be held in Switzerland.
Grateful Thanks...
Thank you Michael Reiss von Filski for giving me The D'Albret Residency, I hope to live up to your high expectations. Thank you Bea Petri, Steckborn business owner and international philanthropist for your enthusiasm. Thank you, Hagen Ludwig, from Bär's Boat Service for the loan of the boat, allowing me to paint you and seeing your incredible historical photographs of the boat yard. Thank you to Chris and the barman (and what an excellent hat) at The Helter Skelter Bar in Steckborn for setting up the poker game. Thank you Julia Sattler from the Phönix Theater for allowing me to take painting references of the Cinema during the screening of 'Love Actually'. Thank you Leslie Peyer from the Hotel-Feldbach for so generously allowing me to take references and sketches of your staff and hotel. What amazing views of Lake Constance from the room! Thank you Eggenberger Moritz, Mayor of Steckborn for your time, your contacts and your kindness. Thank you to the girl in the bakery and everyone of the City of Steckborn, I can’t wait to come back in the Spring and perfect my pronunciation of the word 'Grüezi'. And finally, a big thank you to my husband David, logistics expert, cheerleader and bestfriend.
The following are works in progress. These will be updated throughout the year.
The Harbour at Steckborn
30"x40"
Oil on canvas
2025
Still in the early stages, lots of work still to do in the foreground but the water and colour palette is getting somewhere.
Love Actually
50"x100"
Oil on canvas
2025
Still in grisaille, a long way to go but the composition and structure is moving in the right direction.
Such a lovely night. The laughter and joy on the audience's faces was palpable. I just hope I can do them justice.
The Bakery in Steckborn
30"x24"
Oil on Canvas
2025
The bakery do this incredible cake there called 'Moon Cake', I think it's like a poppy seed filled Stollen, definitely worth a try. A big thank you to the lovely girl who works there who was so patient as I took my references.
Poker Game at the Helter Skelter
30"x40"
Oil on canvas
2025
A fantastic night! The Helter Skelter Pub A huge thank you to Chris for setting up the players. And yes, that is a lifesize donkey in the window.
Room at the Felbach
30"x24"
Oil n canvas
2025/6
Maked up on grisaille, this painting has a long way to go. The key to its success lies in the careful use of light and dark. Restraint isn't really a natural state but it does reflect the season and nature of the city well.
Hagen Ludwig at Bär's Boat Service
30"x24"
Oil on canvas
2025/6
There is something extraordinary about the colours and light in Steckborn over the winter. Trying to represent that in this simple portrait will take a lot more work.