August - More Local Ruins

In August, I went exploring some more local ruins including Buckholm Tower, Whytbank Tower and (even though we already knew about it) Elibank Castle.

I did these paintings on 18 x 24cm canvas boards, like Torwoodlee Tower, so that I could scan them and make "postcards". I used Inktense pencils and water-brushes to add the colour and grass and tree textures. Then I used a fine-liner pen to add the detail to the bricks/walls and fences, and to define the edges of the ruins and trees.

Buckholm Tower

Buckholm Tower

18 x 24cm

I first saw Buckholm Tower from across the valley as we were going in to Galashiels and at that point, I didn't know which ruin it was.

I really like the fences in this painting because I think they help lead your eye up to the Tower itself. I also think the trees/bushes are quite effective.


Whytbank Tower

Whytbank Tower

18 x 24cm

Whytbank Tower was restored fairly recently but it is surrounded by ruins of the rest of the "settlement". The gardens here are well kept and had some beautiful flowers.

I think the painting turned out really well, especially the trees and ruined buildings in the foreground. I also like the sky and the variation in the blue around the clouds.


Elibank Castle

Elibank Castle

18 x 24cm

Elibank Castle was one of the first long walks we did as a family when we moved to Scotland. I only recently learned the history of it though - there is quite a funny story about "Muckle Mouthed Meg"!

I think the texture I got into the grass/bracken is quite effective and helps add some depth to the painting. I also tried to put in a few foxgloves to add a bit of interest to the foreground.



Please leave a comment below to let me know what you think or to vote on your favourite...