The painting at the moment in progress is of a 22,000lb Grand Slam bomb being loaded into its modified Lancaster. The challenge for me here is to inject mood and atmosphere into an otherwise aggressive and warlike scene. I think a little mist depicting early morning or evening would help to do the trick. I am looking forward to doing the bomb trolley, with its heavy duty lifting winches etc. There could be quite a bit of detail to get right here.

The commission is for Paul Wong, a very keen art collector in Australia, who ones a military gallery and publishes a lot of Army stuff. He in fact commissioned me to paint the picture of the Whirlwind in my site gallery, one of his favourite types.

A big commission now just started, is indeed from the British Army. The 16th regiment Royal Artillery has commissioned me to paint a couple of large canvases for them, 5’ x 3’ depicting their defence system in action defending Basra from insurgent missiles. They have invited me to fly out with them to Basra to get a feel for the subject. Must remember to purchase a flak jacket from the stall opposite me at Duxford next time.

I am in the middle of a small Lysander painting. One of my little 16” x 12” canvases. They are very enjoyable to do as they are quick to do and usually sell off the easel before they are finished. This one actually sold at Duxford Airshow 18th May.

My latest release is that of the Lancaster of Les Munro during the preparations to the raid on the dams in 1943 at Reculver. The image depicts his aircraft releasing an ‘Upkeep’ mine. The teat revealed that the speed and height were not suitable on account of the fact the tail of the Lanc. got a good soaking from the splash. This resulted in damage to the rear fuselage trapping the rear gunner in his turret. Les Munro himself, was flown over from New Zealand for the major 617Sqn. Dambuster event at Aces High Aviation Gallery. The original painting was purchased by Peter Jackson, (film director and keen aviation enthusiast). Peter now has three of my canvases, I am very honoured. Colin at Aces High kindly arranged for me to have 36 of the prints to be signed by Les Munro. Pilot of AJ-W, and Ken Lucas, his mechanic. The prints sold very well at Duxford air show. Not having the opportunity to publicise their release before the air show, there is still a small quantity left. Please either email or phone if you would like more details.

The Lincolnshire Lancaster Association has for the third year running, commissioned me to paint their fine art print, and Christmas card. The image depicts a Lancaster Mk III at the point of rotation on take off, being very eagerly observed by a small group of erks. The original painting has been accepted by the Guild of Aviation Artists, for the annual exhibition at the Mall Galleries in London. It seems a long time since I was able to involve myself with the Guild, due commissions and associated commitments. I was lucky enough this year to have one to put in. The print release will be notified in the appropriate monthly update.

Please watch this space for next months update. Robin