Painting Northumberland this spring – and what’s ahead for summer
Local artist Joanne Wishart is based in Cullercoats. Here, she shares an insight into her recent work and what’s inspiring her as we move into the summer months.
Earlier this year, I turned my attention to painting daffodils and exploring how they sit within the Northumberland landscape. Warkworth Castle has been on my list of places to paint for many years, so I eagerly awaited the burst of yellow blooms that arrive each Easter and beautifully frame the castle (see cover).
To expand on this series, I took a walk up to Church Hill, which offers sweeping views over the River Aln and the estuary towards Alnmouth village. It’s a scene I’m particularly drawn to, with daffodils scattered gently through the dunes, adding colour and movement to the landscape.
To complete the set, I’m currently working on a painting of Lindisfarne Castle. I spent a day on Lindisfarne walking and sketching, searching for the perfect viewpoint from the bank top, looking out across the bay to the castle in the distance.
As we leave spring behind, I’m delighted to have been selected as an artist for St Oswald’s Hospice’s Tales on the Tyne Art Trail. I’m currently busy – and sworn to secrecy – working on a large-scale Peter Rabbit sculpture (below) for the trail. From Wednesday 15 July to Monday 14 September 2026, more than 40 individually decorated sculptures will be displayed across streets, parks and public spaces in Newcastle and North Tyneside.
My design has a coastal theme… and that’s all I can reveal for now ahead of the big unveiling in July!
At the end of the trail, all of the sculptures will be auctioned to raise funds for St Oswald’s Hospice, supporting the incredible work they do across our region.
Looking ahead to summer, I’ll be painting a little closer to home. I’m particularly looking forward to focusing on Longsands Beach and the surrounding areas of Tynemouth. There’s such an abundance of inspiration here that it’s often hard to know where to begin. My husband and I walk along the beach each morning before opening the gallery, so I’m sure the right scene will present itself as the brighter days unfold.
Joanne’s Gallery opened in 2018. It is open Wednesday to Saturday from 10am – 5pm and stocks a range of original paintings, fine art prints, greetings cards, gifts and homeware. They even offer a gift-wrap service too. The gallery can be found at: 6 St George’s Road, Cullercoats, NE30 3JY. It’s just a short walk from the seafront and a three minute walk from Cullercoats Metro Station.
Joanne’s website is: www.joannewishart.co.uk
Instagram: @joanne.wishart.art
Facebook: facebook.com/JoanneWishartArtist/
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