Capturing Crantock: A New Addition to the 'Cornwall From Above' Collection

Capturing Crantock: A New Addition to the 'Cornwall From Above' Collection

I’m so excited to share my latest piece in the Cornwall From Above collection—Crantock Beach, Newquay. This painting has been a labor of love, combining my passion for Cornwall’s rugged coastline with my signature 3D coral details. Inspired by stunning aerial views I captured with my drone this summer, the painting blends the Cornish coastline with the vibrant, textured world beneath the waves.

A Moment of Inspiration

Crantock Beach is a beautiful and popular beach in Cornwall! The way the golden sands meet the waters creates such a striking contrast that I couldn't resist turning it into a piece of art. While capturing drone footage of Crantock Beach, I was mesmerised by the unique patterns created by the tides and seaweed, all visible from above. I wanted to bring those elements to life on the canvas, blending the serene beauty of the coastline with my love for coral reefs.

From drone to canvas: The Process

This painting began with a combination of two screenshots from the drone footage. I wanted to include the areas where you can see the sandy patches beneath the water and the rich, darker areas where seaweed sways with the current. The challenge was in translating that imagery into a piece that balanced the tranquility of the scene with the detailed, vibrant texture of 3D coral.

 

I used a range of materials, paint, texture paste and clay. I use the texture paste to build up the base layers of coral, which sit on top of the depth created with the paint. It’s a messy but a rewarding process, allowing me to add real depth to the ocean. I also decided to add texture to the waves, creating a more dynamic feel that contrasts with the calmer, sandy areas of the painting. These 3D coral elements are what make this piece come alive, inviting viewers to take a closer look and explore all the little details.

A New Challenge: Miniature Surfers and Kayakers

I thought I was nearly finished with this painting, but the drone footage kept calling me back to add a little extra touch. I was captivated by the surfers, kayakers, and paddle boarders gliding through the waves in the footage, and I thought—why not add them to the painting?

It was a new challenge for me, as I’d never painted such tiny figures before! I started with a double kayak, focusing on the tiny details, like the angle of the paddles and the figures in motion. Then came the surfer and paddle boarder, each with their own little quirks. It took a few attempts to get the proportions just right, but I’m thrilled with how they turned out. The addition of these miniature figures brings a playful energy to the painting, capturing the energy and life I felt at Crantock Beach on the day.

 

The Finished Piece: A Tribute to Cornwall's Coastal Charm

The finished piece combines everything I love about Cornwall’s coastline: the beautiful contrast between water and sand, the vibrant life of the coral reefs, and the adventurous spirit of those who enjoy its waters. It’s a celebration of both the landscape and the hidden world beneath the waves. I hope that when you look at this painting, you feel like you’re right there on the beach, with the sea breeze on your face and the sound of the waves in your ears.

Crantock Beach is now available on my website, and I couldn’t be more excited to share it with you. It’s a piece that’s close to my heart, and I hope it brings a little piece of Cornwall into your home, wherever that may be.

If you’ve ever visited Crantock Beach, or if you have your own favourite spot along the Cornish coast, I’d love to hear your stories! Feel free to leave a comment below or reach out on social media.

Thank you for joining me on this creative journey, and stay tuned for more pieces from the Cornwall From Above collection! Sign up to my mailing list for early access to future paintings.

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