May 2025, Newsletter
Hello,
As May draws to a close, I hope this little note finds you in good spirits.
Here in the Lake District during May, we’ve been treated to unusually warm and dry weather - beautiful in many ways, but not without its impact.
The dry spell has revealed something quite extraordinary: the Hidden Village of Mardale, normally submerged beneath the waters of Haweswater Reservoir. Built in the valley and flooded in 1939 to provide water for the North West, this long-lost hamlet has resurfaced, exposing old stone walls, tree stumps, and the outline of homes. It’s a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into the past. If you're intrigued, I’d recommend reading up on its history as it is a fascinating tale of Cumbria.
A slow descent from High Street Fell on tired legs offered the perfect pause to take in the valley’s quiet drama, with the gentle trickle of Hayeswater Gill behind creating a beautifully serene backdrop.
A Recent Commission: Langdale Light
Just before the start of May, I completed and delivered a commission titled Langdale Light. This piece was created using natural data gathered while walking through the Langdale Valley. It now rests in its forever home in the surrounding area of Harrogate, and I’m delighted to share a glimpse of it with you here.
Its colour palette draws directly from the soft greens and golden grasses - sunlight and shadow playing across its surface like a conversation through contrast.
Favorite Hike of the Month
Making the most of the sunshine, I’ve been out walking whenever I can between days in the studio. One particularly memorable hike this month began in Hartsop, at the southern tip of Lake Ullswater. The route took us over Gray Crag, up to Thornthwaite Crag, on to High Street, across The Knott, and then a winding descent down past the small lake of Hayeswater.
The visibility that day was breathtaking. From the heights we could see all the way to Morecambe Bay, its silver edge catching the light like a mirror. Treated in every direction: the iconic shape of Helvellyn, the jagged Langdale Pikes, and the tranquil sweep of Ullswater encircling Howtown. Truly breathtaking!
New Work Now in Keswick
This month I also delivered two new paintings to Pole Star Gallery in Keswick - a medium and a smaller piece. While I love working at a grand scale, I’m always drawn to the challenge of capturing that same immersive energy on a smaller canvas. After all, not every wall has the space for a substantial artwork!
If you’re in the area, do pop in and take a look.
See My Latest Work
If you’d like to browse my most recent paintings, you’re warmly invited to visit the gallery page on my website. I currently have both ‘littles’ & ‘large’ available…
I am currently working on adding a page to my website dedicated to exhibiting the commissioned artworks which I have created over the years, I’ll be sure to let you know once it’s ready for viewing - I’d love you to have a browse!
View from our Hartsop Circular adventure, looking over lake Windermere with Morecambe in the distance.
Wishing you calm days, quiet paths, and skies that give a kind balance.
Lets see what June brings!
Charlotte
