I knew I would be painting this scene as soon as I came across it. It’s a bridge crossing Gypsy Race in the Boynton estate. Gypsy race is a typical fast flowing chalk stream so named because it seems to appear and then disappear on its meandering way to the sea. The scene is so tranquil and peaceful and makes a perfect composition. However if you can’t improve on nature you sometimes have to improve on man made objects. The actual bridge is a simple platform across the stream and fenced on both sides for safety making it eminently practical but not very inspiring. It had to go and in its place I substituted an old fashioned pack horse bridge which might originally have been there in the first place. I painted quickly and freely, focussing on the impression rather the detail of the place. I’m happy with it and will be happy to back there too.
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