This is all quite new to me not used to writing on forums,my main interest is in water colours although I like to try out most of the painting mediums. I have been painting for about four years some work is very good some paintings are not as good as I would like.My two favorites are flowers and landscapes, up to now I mainly painted landscapes, however this year I want to concentrate on flower painting as this lets me do more intricate work because of the petals and flower centres. Does anyone else in my area share my passion and wish to talk, if so please reply.

Hi, Im not from your area but would just like to welcome you to the site. I 'play', a little watercolour, pastels, some acrylic and coloured pencil. Im afraid I dont let many people see what Im doing. But I have given the odd picture to friends. Usually this has been from a photo of their dog/s, cat or grandchild etc. Ive always had good comments but Im so ... 'shy' is the wrong word. I just dont show people stuff. Hence Ive never done anything like a course or painting groups. I think watercolour is difficult and like the control of coloured pencil better. I do like to do flowers and Ive not done much landscape. I usually take myself off for a few days a couple of times a year and spend the time walking, taking photos, sketching etc. I belong to a sewing forum and the forums there are full of chatty folks. Hope someone else answers your post who lives closer and you could perhaps sketch/paint together. Yours, Ellen

Where in the East Midlands do you live? I go to a very friendly art group in Newark - welcoming and encouraging to all abilities. Let me know if you want details - you'd make lots of art friends there.